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Average Price: $600
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$1501+
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Description
RS-09 is a keyboard mechanism that produces the sound of the strings as well as the rich sounds of the organ.
Equipped with a 2-channel output and an ensemble capacity, you can create a deep and wide range sound with a stereo or PA system. And with the external input jack, you can add the ensemble effect to the sounds of various electronic and electric instruments. In connecting RS-09 to other synthesizers (SH-1), you can get a similar effect to a polyphonic synthesizer.
Product specs
| Brand | Roland |
| Model | RS-09 44-Key Organ / String Synthesizer |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1978 - 1983 |
| Made In | Japan |
| Categories | Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths |
| Analog / Digital | Analog |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| Number of Keys | 44 Keys |
| Polyphony | 64 Voices |
FAQs
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What kind of sounds can the Roland RS-09 produce?
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The Roland RS-09 is known for its rich analog organ and string sounds, featuring a lush ensemble effect that provides warmth and depth typical of late 1970s synthesizers.
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Is the Roland RS-09 suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Roland RS-09 is suitable for live performances due to its full-size keys and 64-voice polyphony, allowing for complex chords and layered sounds.
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How many keys does the Roland RS-09 have?
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The Roland RS-09 features a 44-key keyboard with full-size keys, offering a comfortable playing experience for both beginners and experienced musicians.
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Is the Roland RS-09 an analog or digital synthesizer?
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The Roland RS-09 is an analog synthesizer, known for its warm and authentic sound characteristic of vintage synths from the late 1970s.
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What is the polyphony of the Roland RS-09?
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The Roland RS-09 offers 64-voice polyphony, allowing musicians to play complex chords and layered sounds without note dropouts.
Videos
PianoVintage
DEMO ROLAND RS09 - ORGAN / STRING -
Reviews
PROS
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Shimmering string sounds when paired with proper reverb/delay
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Flexible and fun organ capabilities
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Lush and hypnotizing string voices
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Offers a nostalgic sound reminiscent of The Cure's goth phase
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Reliable performance over decades of use
CONS
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Limited variety in sounds available
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland Organ/Strings RS-09.
Features and functionality
Comparisons
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Released alongside the SH-09, they can be interconnected for a quasi-polyphonic setup, enhancing the RS-09's capabilities.
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Owners describe the RS-09 as having a warmer tone compared to Solina string synths, with the organ feature adding significant depth to the sound.
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The RS-09 shares a similar ensemble circuit with the VP330 and RS505, known for its desirable sound effects.
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Use cases and applications
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Owners find the RS-09 particularly effective when paired with tape delay and reverb for creating rich, atmospheric sounds.
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The combination of organ and strings is noted for creating a 'huge' sound, appealing to those seeking rich, layered tones.
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The RS-09 was popular in 80s goth rock, suggesting a niche appeal for specific music genres.
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Value and pricing
Build quality
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
From left to right: Apple Macintosh, Moog MemoryMoog, Roland RS-09, unknown computer, Sequential Circuits Prophet 5, Suzuki Omnichord Q-Chord, Crumar Orchestrator / Multiman-S, Korg Poly-Ensemble P PE-1000, Moog Keyboard Controller, MIDIPRO 49, Akai S3000X On table: Baldwin DS-50 Discoverer, Korg MicroKorg, ? ? Korg MS20
In a Reddit AMA, Andy Schauf explains that he used an Prophet 6, an ASM Hydrasynth, an Argon8, and a Roland RS-09 on his album, "Norm".
"Today's #rig. photo taken mid-take. #onetake" Munro captures a picture of an RS-09 he used in a recording session. (uploaded to Instagram October 6, 2014)
"I take the OBXa, Prophet 5, Roland RS09 strings and a Micro Moog on tour. All the keyboards are direct injected both on stage and in the studio."
Matthieu Hartley is seen playing the Roland Organ/Strings RS-09 during a live performance with The Cure in 1979, as captured in a YouTube video by Millo Salgado. This synthesizer was notably used in the creation of their album "17 Seconds."
Album Usage
The Roland Organ/Strings RS-09 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 Organ/Strings RS-09, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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