Roland MKS-70

^# 15

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$1,250.00 Price Tier: High-end

4.5 (14)

1 Critic Review

2 Reviews

Find out who is using Roland MKS-70

2 community setups

9 wishlisted

29 saved

Page last updated Jun 14, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 14, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

5.0 (10)

$1,250.00 6 available Used

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Average Price: $1,250

High-end/Boutique

$200

$801+

Price Tier

In the Sound Modules category, Roland MKS-70 is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

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Dive into the lush soundscape of the Roland MKS-70, a timeless classic that brings the full-bodied analog synthesis of the legendary Super JX-10 into a compact, rack-mountable form. Perfect for studio musicians and live performers alike, this synthesizer offers unparalleled depth, from warm pads to piercing leads, thanks to its dual DCOs and resonant analog filter. Whether you're crafting intricate soundscapes or adding that missing piece to your track, the MKS-70 stands ready to breathe analog life into your music, without cluttering your space.

Key Features:

12-voice polyphony for rich, layered sounds
Dual Digitally Controlled Oscillators (DCOs) per voice for detailed sound shaping
Resonant 24dB/octave analog filter, infusing warmth and character
Comprehensive MIDI implementation for seamless integration into modern setups
PG-800 programmer compatibility for hands-on control over sound design
Compact, rack-mountable form factor, ideal for space-conscious studios and stages

Product specs

Brand	Roland
Model	MKS-70 Rackmount Analog Synthesizer
Finish	Black
Year	1986 - 1990
Made In	Japan
Categories	Analog Synths, Rackmount Synths
Analog / Digital	Analog
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Polyphony	12 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Roland MKS-70 use?: The Roland MKS-70 is an analog rackmount synthesizer, known for its rich, warm analog sound, characteristic of the classic Roland sound from the 1980s.
How many voices of polyphony does the Roland MKS-70 support?: The Roland MKS-70 supports 12 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex, layered sounds and chords.
Can the Roland MKS-70 be integrated with modern MIDI setups?: Yes, the Roland MKS-70 features MIDI Input, Output, and Through, making it compatible with modern MIDI setups for seamless integration.
What are the standout features of the Roland MKS-70's sound engine?: The MKS-70's sound engine is renowned for its dual DCO architecture, offering lush pads, rich strings, and powerful basses that are ideal for a wide range of musical genres.
Is the Roland MKS-70 suitable for live performance?: While primarily designed as a studio module, the MKS-70 can be used in live performance settings with appropriate MIDI controllers, offering versatile sound options for live musicians.

Videos

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SyntheticMachines

Roland MKS-70

SyntheticMachines

Roland MKS-70 & MPG-70 Controller | The Perfect Match!

Espen Kraft

64 new sounds for Roland JX10/MKS70 Vecoven PWM 4.xx update

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Roland MKS-70 Super JX

Perfect Circuit

Roland MKS-70 / JX-10 Super JX (1986) Analog Synthesizer Part 1

Nacho Marty Meyer

Roland JX-10/MKS-70 new sounds

The Synth King

Roland MKS-70 "Super JX" Presets (DI Recorded)

Greg

Roland MKS-70 / JX-10 Super JX (1986) Analog Synthesizer Part 3

Nacho Marty Meyer

Roland MKS- 70 Tones exploration

Miguel d'Oliveira

Reviews

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PROS

Multi-layered analog sounds offer vast sonic exploration
Two tone patches per preset for complex sound combinations
Vecoven firmware update enhances usability and features
12 voice, 24 DCO design for rich, powerful output
Bi-timbral capability allows for versatile sound production
Compatible with PG-800 for easier programming

CONS

Original presets can be misleading; manual editing required
Programming can be challenging without external controller
Considered overpriced compared to modern alternatives
Original OS may have limitations and bugs

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland MKS-70.

Features and functionality

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The MKS-70's "dual mode" layers sounds from both synth engines across the entire key range, enhancing its versatility in sound design.
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Some owners experience a common issue with the display where all segments light up, contributing to noise, which suggests a need for regular maintenance.
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The JX-10 keyboard is noted for its quiet, semi-weighted action, although aftertouch often fails after decades of use.
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Use cases and applications

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One user successfully used the MKS-70 for a "one-synth challenge," highlighting its capability to handle all melodic parts for an entire track.
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User experience

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Owners appreciate the ability to program original patches directly from the MKS-70's front panel controls, showcasing its user-friendly interface for sound design.
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Programming the MKS-70 from the front panel is often described as cumbersome, even when using the PG800 programmer.
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Software and compatibility

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The MKS-70 integrates well with DAWs like Cubase, allowing seamless replacement of General MIDI tracks with custom patches for enhanced audio quality.
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Mods and upgrades

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The aftermarket Vecoven firmware upgrade significantly enhances the MKS-70's capabilities, especially when paired with Max4Live tools to explore new sound possibilities through random CC values.
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The Vecoven PWM upgrade and the forthcoming FPGA version are highly anticipated by users for their potential to elevate the MKS-70's sound quality further.
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Vecoven firmware adds full MIDI CC control and a MIDI clocked arpeggiator to the MKS-70, enhancing programming ease and functionality.
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Setup and maintenance

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Original PSU capacitors may need replacing as they exceed their lifespan; this is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and avoiding potential issues.
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The MKS-70's disassembly can be challenging due to its densely packed internal components, requiring careful handling to avoid damaging old, fragile PCBs and pads.
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Comparisons

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The MKS-70 allows for Sysex dumps, a feature missing from the original JX-10 firmware, making it more flexible for modern setups.
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Critic Reviews

Roland MKS-70 | Vintage Synth Explorer

vintagesynth.com

A vintage gem, the Roland MKS-70 rackmount synth combines dual JX-8P engines for lush, warm analog tones that have graced countless modern studios. The onboard effects like Chorus and Delay enrich its sound palette, although editing directly from the rack is a chore without the PG-800 Programmer. Despite its somewhat awkward interface, the MKS-70's "chase-play" feature and renowned user list, including Vangelis and Astral Projection, highlight its enduring appeal. Ideal for those who prioritize sonic character over ease of use.

positive

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