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Description

The Roland MPG-80 is a revered sound module that has carved its niche in the world of synthesizers and sound modules. Designed for musicians who crave vintage analog sounds with modern reliability, this module partners seamlessly with the Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter. It offers unparalleled control over sound creation, making it a staple for synthesizer enthusiasts and professionals alike. Its dedicated slider controls provide tactile interaction, allowing for precise adjustments and real-time sound manipulation, which is perfect for live performances and studio sessions.

The MPG-80's interface is intuitive, focusing on ease of use without compromising on depth. Whether you're shaping lush pads, punchy bass lines, or ethereal leads, this sound module ensures you have the tools at your fingertips. The module's robust build quality guarantees longevity, and its compatibility with MIDI systems makes it a versatile addition to any setup. As a sought-after piece of gear, the MPG-80 continues to be revered for its ability to deliver authentic analog textures with the convenience of digital precision.

Key Features:

  • Dedicated slider controls for real-time sound manipulation
  • Seamless integration with Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter
  • Intuitive interface for ease of use
  • High compatibility with MIDI systems
  • Built for durability and longevity

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model MPG-80 Synthesizer Programmer
Finish Black
Year 1984 - 1989
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through

FAQs

What is the primary function of the Roland MPG-80?

The Roland MPG-80 is a synthesizer programmer designed to provide hands-on control over the Roland MKS-80 sound module, allowing users to easily adjust parameters and access the full range of the MKS-80's features.

How does the Roland MPG-80 connect to the MKS-80?

The MPG-80 connects to the MKS-80 via a specific Controller port using a dedicated cable, enabling direct manipulation of the MKS-80's sound parameters.

Is the Roland MPG-80 compatible with other synthesizers besides the MKS-80?

The Roland MPG-80 is specifically designed to work with the MKS-80 and may not be compatible with other synthesizers, as it uses a unique connection and control protocol tailored for the MKS-80.

Does the Roland MPG-80 support MIDI connections?

Yes, the Roland MPG-80 features MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through connections, allowing it to integrate with other MIDI-equipped devices in a studio setup.

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lesingemonotone

Roland MKS-80 and MPG-80

Video thumbnail for Roland MKS-80 and MPG-80 by lesingemonotone

Roland MKS-80 and MPG-80

lesingemonotone

lesingemonotone

Video thumbnail for Roland MKS-80 REV5 & MPG-80 (1983) - Werkstatt Matlak by Werkstatt Matlak

Roland MKS-80 REV5 & MPG-80 (1983) - Werkstatt Matlak

Werkstatt Matlak

Werkstatt Matlak

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland MPG-80.

Features and functionality

  • The MPG-80 offers key follow for VCOs, the envelopes, and the filter, affecting envelope time based on key pitch.

    Source
  • The MKS-80's envelope key follow shortens decay and release times as you ascend the keyboard, reminiscent of Jupiter-style envelopes.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners praise the MKS-80 for its flexibility and vintage sound, highlighting velocity sensitivity as a highly underrated feature.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • The retroactiv MPG-80 replacement controller is recommended by some users as a worthwhile upgrade, inspired by Espen Kraft's endorsement.

    Source
  • Access Virus TI can be programmed to mimic an MPG-80 using its REMOTE mode, allowing each knob to send its own sysex for control.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Lemur on iPad offers smoother sound editing for the MKS-80 than the MPG-80, with additional app templates available.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 5 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Paul McCartney uses Roland MPG-80

Paul McCartney

Bassist, Singer

The Beatles

...
Verified via Hog Hill Mill Blog

the Roland MPG-80 is listed in this blog

See how Martin L. Gore uses Roland MPG-80

Martin L. Gore

Singer, Guitarist

Depeche Mode

...
Verified via reverb.com

Sold on Reverb.com in 2019 for charity.

This Roland MKS80 w/ MPG80 is from the private collection of Martin Gore, founding member of Depeche Mode

SN: 501679. A very wild device. Watch yourself on those rack ears. Super sharp. Included memory card and SOME cabling. IEC included. Signed by Martin Gore

All items in The Official Martin Gore of Depeche Mode Reverb Shop ship fully insured with delivery confirmation and include a signed and embossed Certificate of Authenticity from Martin Gore.

SN: 4601400407023694. Clean and lightly used beat step. No cabling. Signed by Martin Gore

All items in The Official Martin Gore of Depeche Mode Reverb Shop ship fully insured with delivery confirmation and include a signed and embossed Certificate of Authenticity from Martin Gore.

See how Klaus Schulze uses Roland MPG-80

Klaus Schulze

Guitarist, Bassist

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via Klaus-schulze

Atari 1040 ST, Atari Mega ST 4, Roland: Super JX 10, S 50, D 50, MKS 80, MKS 30, U 110, MPG 80; Akai X 7000, Fairlight, Yamaha TX 81 Z, Akai S 612, Korg DVP 1, Roland SRV 2000, Korg SDD 1200, Ibanez SDR 1000, Eventide Harmonizer, 3x Hohner HS-1/E, 2x Klark EQ, Arsonic-Sigma 5.2, EMS Synthi A, and others...

See how Harry Gregson-Williams uses Roland MPG-80

Harry Gregson-Williams

Composer, Music Producer

Kind Heaven Orchestra

...
Verified via YouTube

Seen very briefly around 11:09. Identifiable through position of knobs/decals as well as its placement above the Roland Super-Jupiter.

See how Scooter uses Roland MPG-80

Scooter

Music Producer

Dance United

...
Verified via Facebook

In a photo on their official Facebook page, Scooter is seen using the Roland MPG-80 sound module.

See how pdogg uses Roland MPG-80

pdogg

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

Producer Pdogg has acquired a Roland MPG-80, as shown in his Instagram post, where he mentions receiving it from Japan.

See how DMX Krew uses Roland MPG-80

DMX Krew

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

On this 2017 video, we can spot a Roland MPG-80 at the 0:10 mark, among Edward Upton's other studio equipment.

See how Marius de Vries uses Roland MPG-80

Marius de Vries

Composer, Music Producer

The Blow Monkeys

...
Verified via Soundonsound

The tenth photo shows his studio and is captioned: "Marius de Vries now does most of his programming work in his own room at London's Strongroom studios. The large rack at left contains, from top, Alesis DM Pro drum module, Korg O1R/W sound module, Roland MKS80 Super Jupiter synth with MPG80 programmer, Studio Electronics MIDIMoog synth, two Akai S3200 samplers, Emu Vintage Keys and Morpheus sound modules, Kurzweil K2000R sound module, Roland MKS50 and JV1080 sound modules."

See how Kurt Ader KApro uses Roland MPG-80

Kurt Ader KApro

...
Verified via Facebook

Kurt Ader, known for his work with KApro, uses the Roland MPG-80 synthesizer, as indicated on his Facebook page.

See how Mark Isham uses Roland MPG-80

Mark Isham

Composer

...
Verified via Soundonsound

Not that Isham has entirely forsaken his 'synthetic' past — far from it, in fact. Even his beloved analogue collection — now expanded to incorporate an Oberheim Xpander, a Roland MKS80 with MPG80 programmer, and a rare Moog Model 12, one of those 'big modular Moogs' he once admired from afar — regularly gets a look in: "I just did an entire film score that used the 2600, MIDI'd via an old Roland MPU101 MIDI‑CV converter" says Isham, with a hint of bravado. Isham's studio also contains an extensive selection of more modern synths. Of his Korg Trinity Plus, Z1, Prophecy, Wavestation A/D and ubiquitous M1, Roland JD800, and newly acquired, knob‑laden Access Virus, the latter is currently proving most agreeable with the composer.

See how Stephen Hague uses Roland MPG-80

Stephen Hague

Keyboardist, Composer

Jules & The Polar Bears

...
Verified via Muzines

The two Macs are interfaced to the outside world with two Opcode Studio 3 units and a Studio 5. Hague has plenty of sound sources to drive with these. There's an M3R, a DX7II, two rack-mounted Roland Super Jupiter modules (with programmers), a Roland JD800, DS50 and U220, a Korg Wavestation A/D, and an Akai/Linn MPC60, plus a few oldies. Amongst the latter are a Korg MS12, his original Yamaha CS80, and an Oberheim OB8.

See how John Sinclair uses Roland MPG-80

John Sinclair

Keyboardist

Ozzy Osbourne

...
Verified

In the April 1986 issue of International Musician & Recording World, an article titled "Beatroute" confirmed that John Sinclair used the Roland MPG-80 as part of his live stage setup during his tour with Ozzy Osbourne.

Album Usage

The Roland MPG-80 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 MPG-80, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter
Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter Synthesizers & Sound Modules
9
Studio Electronics Midimoog
Studio Electronics Midimoog Synthesizers & Sound Modules
3
Korg Prophecy
Korg Prophecy Synthesizers
3
Roland JD-990
Roland JD-990 Synthesizers & Sound Modules
3
Korg Wavestation A/D
Korg Wavestation A/D Synthesizers & Sound Modules
3
Roland JD-800
Roland JD-800 Synthesizers
3
Roland TB-303
Roland TB-303 Synthesizers
2
Access Virus B
Access Virus B Tabletop Synthesizers
2
Roland D-550
Roland D-550 Synthesizers & Sound Modules
2

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