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Description

Step into the world of seamless digital connectivity with the Roland MPU-101, a quintessential tool for musicians and producers looking to integrate their vintage synths with modern setups. This MIDI-to-CV converter bridges the gap between past and present, offering precision control over analog synths using MIDI commands. The intelligent processing unit at its heart ensures accurate signal translation, making it indispensable for studio enthusiasts who value the unique textures of analog sound.

Designed for both experienced professionals and budding musicians, the MPU-101 boasts a user-friendly interface that simplifies complex operations. Its robust build ensures reliability in both studio and live settings, making it a trusted companion for years to come. Whether you're looking to breathe new life into your vintage gear or expand your current setup's capabilities, the Roland MPU-101 delivers the versatility you need.

Key Features:

  • MIDI-to-CV conversion for seamless integration of vintage synths
  • Intelligent processing unit for accurate signal translation
  • User-friendly interface for easy operation
  • Robust build for reliability in studio and live environments
  • Compatible with a wide range of MIDI devices

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland MPU-101.

Features and functionality

  • The MPU-101 can output very high voltage triggers, which is essential for vintage drum modules like the Simmons SDS-V.

    Source
  • The MPU-101 can convert controller data along with note data, making it versatile for controlling synths like the SCI Pro-One.

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Use cases and applications

  • It's ideal for users with a modular system capable of handling 4 voices, or for triggering drum modules from a computer.

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  • It's suggested for controlling multiple old analog synths, especially in setups that require conversion of MIDI to CV with specific gate needs.

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Comparisons

  • Cheaper Behringer synths with CV/Gate, like the Pro-1 and Neutron, are recommended over vintage gear for cost-effectiveness.

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  • Compared to modern solutions like Kenton Pro Solo Mk3 or Keystep Pro, the MPU-101 offers unique benefits for vintage setups.

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Value and pricing

  • The Moog Werkstatt is highlighted as a budget-friendly option, typically retailing for under $200 new, though availability may vary.

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Software and compatibility

  • To maximize the MPU-101, a MIDI source such as a computer or MPC is necessary, along with a keyboard featuring aftertouch.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Different synths require varying CV and Gate settings, such as 1v/oct or Hz/V for pitch, which the MPU-101 handles effectively.

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User experience

  • Users report success in controlling synths with unique requirements, such as MG-1 and Micromoog, using the MPU-101.

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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

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See how Front 242 uses Roland MPU-101

Front 242

Music Producer

...
Verified via Herrebout

Per "Rock This Town" publication, special issue 1991:

In 1991, the setup was as follows: [Rock This Town special issue 1991]

Sound studio: Analog Synths: Roland System 100/100M/101 (+Roland Midi interface MPU-101);YAMAHA CS-40M (in the Take One video); Oberheim Matrix 1000; Digital Synths: Yamaha DX-7 (2); Ensonic VFX; Roland DDR30; Yamaha tg77; Korg Wavestation; Sequencer: Atari 1040 (Sequ. Cubase 2.0); Samplers: AkaiS9000 (2); AkaiS1000 (8Mg + Hard Drive Mfile 44); AkaiS1000PB (4Mg); Emulator II; akai 1100, e-mu Procussion, roland s-10 for live use @ the mixing desk; Effects: Lexicon 480L; Yamaha SPX90 II (2); Roland SRV-2000; Roland SDE-3000; Alesis Midiverb II; Alesis Quadraverb; ART DRX; spx 1000 (x2); Eventide h3000 se; Mixing: Table TAC Scorpion 32/16; Recorder TASCAM MS16 tracks; Recorder DAT Luxman; Speakers Yamaha NS 10M pro ATC SCM50; QUAD ampli (for NS-10M); Diverse: compressor/limiter, noise gate, parametric eq. Live: Backline: Akai S9000; Roland DDR30; Simons & Roland Pads; Emulator II; TASCAM238 8

Graphic Studio: Commodore Amiga 2500 (6Mg + Hard Drive 40Mg); Commodore Amiga 500; Digitizer SNAPSHOT; Camera Sony CCD V-200E; Laserprint NEC Silentwriter LC890; Monitor NEC Multisync 2A.

See how Mark Isham uses Roland MPU-101

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 Firechild uses Roland MPU-101

Firechild

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

video of Firechild performing on the MOS-LAB system 2P with the MPU-101 in his studio

See how Alex Ball uses Roland MPU-101

Alex Ball

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via YouTube

In the video titled "Studio Tour!" by Alex Ball, at 7:01, the Roland MPU-101 MIDI-to-CV interface is shown as part of his setup, connected to the MOTU MIDI Express 128 MIDI interface. Alex Ball further discusses this setup at 52:23.

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 MPU-101, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Roland System 100M
Roland System 100M Modular Synthesizers
2
Akai S1000
Akai S1000 Audio Samplers
2
Ensoniq VFX
Ensoniq VFX Synthesizers
1
Atari 1040 ST
Atari 1040 ST Computers & Peripherals
1
Akai S1100
Akai S1100 Audio Samplers
1
Korg Trinity Plus
Korg Trinity Plus Synthesizers
1
Lexicon PCM-41
Lexicon PCM-41 Effects Processors
1

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