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Description

Dive into the world of dynamic sound creation with the Roland JV-880 Synthesizer, a versatile sound module that has captured the hearts of musicians worldwide. Perfectly suited for both studio and live performances, this synthesizer is a compact powerhouse known for its rich and diverse sound palette. The JV-880 stands out with its advanced synthesis capabilities and features a wide array of preset sounds—everything from lush pads to punchy basses—making it a favorite among electronic music producers and keyboard enthusiasts alike.

The JV-880 synthesizer is built around Roland's innovative Linear Arithmetic (LA) synthesis, allowing users to sculpt sounds with precision. It comes equipped with 28-note polyphony, offering seamless integration into any music setup, whether you're layering sounds or creating complex arrangements. The module's intuitive interface ensures that navigating through parameters and customizing sounds is a breeze, catering to both seasoned pros and budding musicians.

For those looking to expand their sonic horizons, the JV-880 supports expansion boards, providing access to a broader range of sound textures and enhancing its already impressive versatility. Its MIDI compatibility ensures it can easily connect with other devices, making it a staple in any modern musician's toolkit.

Key Features:

  • 28-note polyphony for comprehensive sound layering
  • Roland's proprietary Linear Arithmetic (LA) synthesis
  • Wide range of preset sounds, from intricate pads to robust bass lines
  • Expansion board support to broaden sound capabilities
  • User-friendly interface for easy sound customization
  • MIDI compatibility for seamless integration with other gear
  • Compact design ideal for both studio and live environments

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model JV-880 Multi Timbral Synthesizer Module
Finish Black
Year 1992
Made In Japan
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Rackmount Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Polyphony 28 Voices

FAQs

What are the key features of the Roland JV-880 Synthesizer?

The Roland JV-880 is a rackmount digital synthesizer featuring 28-voice polyphony, a multi-timbral architecture, and a comprehensive set of 192 patches. It includes resonant filters, dual LFOs, and supports MIDI input, output, and through connections, making it versatile for studio and live setups.

Is the Roland JV-880 Synthesizer suitable for modern music production?

Yes, the Roland JV-880 offers a range of classic digital sounds and can be integrated into modern setups via MIDI. Its multi-timbral capabilities allow for complex arrangements, making it a valuable tool for both vintage and contemporary music production.

How does the Roland JV-880 compare to the JV-80?

The JV-880 is the rackmount version of the JV-80, offering the same sound engine without the keyboard controller functions. This makes the JV-880 ideal for those who prefer a compact module for studio use or integration with other MIDI controllers.

Can the Roland JV-880 be used with external MIDI controllers?

Yes, the Roland JV-880 is designed to work seamlessly with external MIDI controllers, providing flexible options for live performance and studio use through its MIDI input, output, and through ports.

What type of sounds can I create with the Roland JV-880?

The Roland JV-880 provides a diverse palette of digital sounds, including strings, pads, basses, and leads, thanks to its multi-oscillator architecture and extensive patch library. It is well-suited for various genres, from electronic to orchestral music.

SynthMania

SynthMania

Roland JV-880 demos

Video thumbnail for Roland JV-880 demos by SynthMania

Roland JV-880 demos

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for Roland JV-880 | A small monster by Espen Kraft

Roland JV-880 | A small monster

Espen Kraft

Espen Kraft

Video thumbnail for Roland JV880-Test Presets by Tiago Mallen

Roland JV880-Test Presets

Tiago Mallen

Tiago Mallen

Video thumbnail for Roland JV-880: New programs by Danielle by TheSynthFreq

Roland JV-880: New programs by Danielle

TheSynthFreq

TheSynthFreq

Video thumbnail for Roland JV-880 part 1 of 2: Voice Patches by IntrepidErie

Roland JV-880 part 1 of 2: Voice Patches

IntrepidErie

IntrepidErie

Video thumbnail for Roland JV-880: Is It Worth It? | Better than the JV-1080?? by Alamo Music Sound Lab

Roland JV-880: Is It Worth It? | Better than the JV-1080??

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Video thumbnail for Roland JV-880 Synth Module Unboxing and Presets by TheGrizzledMusician

Roland JV-880 Synth Module Unboxing and Presets

TheGrizzledMusician

TheGrizzledMusician

Video thumbnail for Roland JV-880 Synth Sound Preset Demo by Mamotreco

Roland JV-880 Synth Sound Preset Demo

Mamotreco

Mamotreco

Video thumbnail for Roland - JV-880 - Exploring the Presets - Part 1 - Midiverse - TV by Midiverse - TV

Roland - JV-880 - Exploring the Presets - Part 1 - Midiverse - TV

Midiverse - TV

Midiverse - TV

Reviews

PROS

  • Built-in drum machine adds versatility

  • Exceptional value for the price

  • Compatible with iPad and Android via MIDI USB adapter

  • Expandable with add-on cards for more sounds

  • Has a unique dark character suitable for pads and atmospheres

  • Historical significance from Roland's esteemed heritage

CONS

  • Requires additional purchases (e.g., Patchbase, add-on cards) for full functionality

  • Can feel dated nearly 30 years after its release

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland JV-880 Synthesizer.

Features and functionality

  • The JV-880 includes "structures" allowing flexible routing; utility waveforms like DC offset can create effects like faked PWM using LFOs out of phase.

    Source
  • The effects engine on some JV-series synths (e.g., JV1010) may lock to channel 1, potentially affecting certain patches like 'Steel Away' and organ sounds.

    Source
  • The JV-880 supports expansion with SR-JV80 cards, providing customization beyond its initial sample set, though it lacks General MIDI support unlike the JV-1010.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The MIDI engine allows setting specific channels for each part, avoiding issues common in older synths like the DX7.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The JV-880 features fewer ROM samples and voices compared to the JV-1080, offering a distinct, albeit cutdown, sound profile.

    Source
  • The Vintage Synth expansion card offers a unique blend of analog, digital, and mellotron sounds, distinguishing it from typical analog synth recreations.

    Source
  • The JV-1010, akin to a 1080, boasts expanded polyphony and ROM size, but requires software for deep editing, making the JV-880 preferable for on-device sound editing.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The JV-880 features one expansion slot, commonly filled with Orchestral I, Vintage Synth, or Keyboards of the 60s and 70s boards.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Orchestral I expansion board is frequently utilized in film scoring, offering a rich palette of orchestral sounds.

    Source
  • The JV-1010 is favored for its compact size and preset capabilities, ideal for those needing a hardware sound library without in-depth editing.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners reflect on the JV-880's age, noting its older status compared to classic analog polysynths from the late 2000s.

    Source
  • Owners find the JV-880 more "organic-sounding" among JV synths, offering hands-on editing without needing external software.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • The JV-880 typically costs slightly less than the JV-1010, appealing to those prioritizing direct editing and expansion capabilities over preset variety.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Roland JV-880 | Vintage Synth Explorer

vintagesynth.com

The Roland JV-880 Synthesizer packs a punch with its compact rack-mount design, offering powerful multi-timbral capabilities and impressive sound editing in a 1U format. As a precursor to the popular JV-1080/2080, it holds its own with high-quality sounds and expansion options via SR-JV80 boards. However, potential buyers should be cautious of its dated interface and limited polyphony of 28 voices, which might not meet the demands of modern productions. Overall, a solid choice for those seeking vintage Roland tones, but it lags behind its successors in terms of features.

Roland JV880 (MT Dec 92)

muzines.co.uk

The Roland JV-880 impresses with its high-quality sounds, making it a standout multitimbral synthesizer. Its straightforward architecture and the ease of editing are significant advantages. However, limited waveforms and reduced polyphony when using complex patches are drawbacks. Despite the competition, its sound quality makes it a worthy contender.

positive
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4.0 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 14 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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snoking

???? the 808 beat this synth can do... another secret...

Yes the JV-880 has a drum machine built in.. lol WTF??????This synth is the best bargain on the planet ($120 on Reverb..lol A real Roland JV synth.); add Coffeeshopped Patchbase, and it becomes a true Synth like any other with full capabilities, iPad and Android compatible with a $19 MIDI USB adapter... seriously. Add some add-on cards and WHAMO! you got more Roland goodness... I know a bargain and I know this heritage. Simply can't get any finer quality from the gods that are Roland! Yes I like the rest too but come on... give credit where credit is due.. Korg doesn't have "Days" like "808 Day" held around the world. lol

bklyn

One of the best Craigslist finds ever!

I wasn't looking for this synth, it happened to found me. I was buying 12 unit rack case and the seller who was moving to another state decided to throw in the JV-880 for free. I bought a rack case for $50 and got a free synthesizer, how awesome is that? I used to use a JV-1080 at AG Studio in Brooklyn, and the JV-2080 at Kingston Studios also in Brooklyn, so it didn't take me long to get acclimated to the JV-880 which also came with the piano card. Best freebie ever!

gus79

Still useful for pads and atmospheres

Today, after almost 30 years from its release, the JV-880 is still useful. I mainly use it (with the card SR-JV-02 Orchestral) to add thickness to pads and atmospheres. In this role, this gear still excels. It has a dark character that is perfect for this kind of sound.

cfeijao

Sintetizador digital

Módulo do famoso Roland JV-80. Está expandido com a placa SR-JV80-07

Artist usage

Add artist
See how DJ Premier uses Roland JV-880 Synthesizer

DJ Premier

Music Producer, DJ

Buckshot LeFonque

...
Verified via Gearslutz

DJ Premier is associated with the Roland JV-880 Synthesizer, as noted in the equipment list from D&D Studios featured on Gearslutz.

See how Christopher Franke uses Roland JV-880 Synthesizer

Christopher Franke

Keyboardist

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via Christopherfranke

from the equipment list on his website

See how Andrew W.K. uses Roland JV-880 Synthesizer

Andrew W.K.

Singer, Guitarist

Wolf Eyes

...
Verified via Usesthis

"I also have a Roland JV-880 but I almost barely use that."

See how James Woolley uses Roland JV-880 Synthesizer

James Woolley

Keyboardist

Nine Inch Nails

...
Verified

In the February 1995 issue of Keyboard Magazine, it is documented that James Woolley's offstage rack included a Roland JV-880 Synthesizer, along with other equipment such as the E-mu Emax II and Alesis D4.

See how Alexander Brandon uses Roland JV-880 Synthesizer

Alexander Brandon

Music Producer

...
Verified via Google Docs

Alexander Brandon, a music producer known for his work in electronic genres, has confirmed his use of the Roland JV-880 Synthesizer. In a detailed interview documented in a Google Docs file titled "Mika Q/A Interview with Alexander Brandon," he recounts his progression through various music creation tools and synthesizers. Starting with MED on Amiga, moving through ScreamTracker 3 and Impulse Tracker 3 on PC, he outlines his journey with synthesizers beginning with a Proteus MPS+ Orchestral, transitioning through a Korg Trinity and Triton ProX, before finally mentioning a Roland synthesizer acquired from Looking Glass in Boston, though he momentarily forgets its specific model then the interviewer find the source. This document serves as direct evidence of Brandon's use of the Roland JV-880 Synthesizer in his musical endeavors.

See how Cinthie uses Roland JV-880 Synthesizer

Cinthie

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via MusicTech

As seen in the rack photos of this MusicTech interview.

See how Tim Follin uses Roland JV-880 Synthesizer

Tim Follin

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via Archive

Tim Follin worked with the Roland JV-880 for Ecco the Dolphin: Defender of the Future's soundtrack, as said in an interview from 1998.

See how Michael Münzing uses Roland JV-880 Synthesizer

Michael Münzing

Composer, Music Producer

Snap!

...
Verified via Muzines

Source: Interview with Michael Münzing and Luca Anzilotti about SNAP! mu:zines.co.uk - 1994: https://www.muzines.co.uk/articles/snap-to-tomorrow/8245

E

Ethan Matthews

Guitarist

Echo Us

...
Verified via Photo

Ethan Matthews used the Roland JV-880 Synthesizer in his Echo Us recordings, as shown in a user-uploaded photo on Lastfm.

See how Bombardier uses Roland JV-880 Synthesizer

Bombardier

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In a studio photo from 2007 taken in New York City, Bombardier is shown using the Roland JV-880 Synthesizer, indicating its use in his albums from the 1990s and 2000s.

See how Bill Cuomo uses Roland JV-880 Synthesizer

Bill Cuomo

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Bill Cuomo is confirmed to use a Roland JV-880 synthesizer, as shown in a photograph on his Facebook music page, where the synthesizer is visible in a rack case in his studio. The image has been enhanced for better viewing.

Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=405480918363560&set=pcb.405481231696862

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 JV-880 Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter
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2
Roland JD-990
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2
Korg EX-8000
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2
Roland TB-303
Roland TB-303 Synthesizers
2

Community setups

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msh3005_records

msh3005_records

Gear IQ 396

dylan_a_santos

dylan_a_santos

Gear IQ 172

miles_ellis

miles_ellis

Gear IQ 215

1 alternative for Roland JV-880 Synthesizer, curated by the Equipboard community.

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