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Description

The Roland MRS-2 ProMars is a versatile synthesizer that pays homage to the classic analog sounds of the 1970s while providing modern functionality for today's musicians. Designed for those who appreciate both vintage tones and contemporary features, this synthesizer is equipped with a multi-mode VCF (Voltage-Controlled Filter), which delivers a wide range of expressive filter effects. It’s perfect for crafting everything from warm, resonant basslines to ethereal, sweeping pads.

The ProMars boasts an array of digital control oscillators (DCOs), ensuring rock-solid tuning stability, which is crucial for live performances and studio sessions. This synth also features a comprehensive selection of envelope generators and LFOs, allowing musicians to create intricate soundscapes and dynamic musical passages. Its intuitive interface and robust build make it an essential tool for both seasoned synth enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Whether you're looking to recreate iconic sounds or explore new sonic territories, the Roland MRS-2 ProMars offers the flexibility and depth to transform your musical ideas into reality. With its blend of classic analog warmth and modern digital precision, this synthesizer is a must-have for any serious music producer or performer.

Key Features:

  • Multi-mode VCF for diverse tonal shaping
  • Digital Control Oscillators (DCOs) for stable tuning
  • Wide array of envelope generators and LFOs
  • Intuitive interface for easy sound creation
  • Robust construction suitable for studio and live use

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model MRS-2 ProMars 37-Key Duophonic Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 1978 - 1982
Made In Japan
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
Number of Keys 37 Keys
Polyphony 4 Voices

FAQs

Is the Roland MRS-2 ProMars a polyphonic synthesizer?

The Roland MRS-2 ProMars is a duophonic synthesizer, meaning it can play two notes simultaneously, which is a feature that allows for more complex sounds compared to monophonic synths.

What kind of sound can I expect from the Roland MRS-2 ProMars?

The Roland MRS-2 ProMars offers classic analog sounds characterized by rich, warm tones and a versatile range of sonic possibilities, ideal for vintage synth enthusiasts and those looking to recreate 70s and 80s synthesizer sounds.

How many keys does the Roland MRS-2 ProMars have and what is the action type?

The Roland MRS-2 ProMars features 37 full-size keys with a synth action, providing a responsive and expressive playing experience suitable for a variety of musical styles.

What are the standout features of the Roland MRS-2 ProMars's sound engine?

The sound engine of the Roland MRS-2 ProMars stands out for its analog architecture, offering classic oscillators, filters, and modulation options that allow for rich and dynamic sound design.

Is the Roland MRS-2 ProMars suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Roland MRS-2 ProMars is suitable for live performances, thanks to its duophonic capabilities and robust analog sound, making it a great choice for musicians seeking vintage tones on stage.

AnalogAudio1

AnalogAudio1

ROLAND PROMARS MRS-2 Analog Synthesizer 1978 | HD DEMO

Video thumbnail for ROLAND PROMARS MRS-2 Analog Synthesizer 1978 | HD DEMO by AnalogAudio1

ROLAND PROMARS MRS-2 Analog Synthesizer 1978 | HD DEMO

AnalogAudio1

AnalogAudio1

Video thumbnail for ROLAND PROMARS // Compuphonic MRS-2 // The Original by LESINDES

ROLAND PROMARS // Compuphonic MRS-2 // The Original

LESINDES

LESINDES

Video thumbnail for Roland Promars Compuphonic MRS-2 by SyntheticMachines

Roland Promars Compuphonic MRS-2

SyntheticMachines

SyntheticMachines

Video thumbnail for ROLAND PROMARS MRS-2 ANALOG SYNTH by Synth Cloud

ROLAND PROMARS MRS-2 ANALOG SYNTH

Synth Cloud

Synth Cloud

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique, haunting sound quality

  • Square wave adds distinct character to mixes

  • Offers a switch for 2 oscillator offsets for tonal versatility

  • Musical and fun modulation section

  • Complements other synths like the JP4 well

  • Described as a great live instrument

CONS

  • Limited to monophonic synthesis, despite "Duophonic" label

  • Oscillators can't have different waveforms or octaves

  • Basic filter with limited modulation capabilities

  • Patch memory underwhelming given the synth's simplicity

  • Perceived as overpriced for its feature set

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 5 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Aphex Twin uses Roland MRS-2 ProMars

Aphex Twin

Music Producer

Mike & Rich

...
Verified via SoundCloud

When asked about usage of the ProMars on the comment section of "Love 7" (track posted on SoundCloud via his account "user18081971"), Richard confirms his experience with the particular piece of gear: "MRS-2, yes used it on some unusual sounding tracks a few months back, beefy synth..missing a few things from the jp4 but has an extra osc!"

See how Vangelis uses Roland MRS-2 ProMars

Vangelis

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Aphrodite's Child

...
Verified via Photo

In this image, Vangelis can be seen at Nemo Studios surrounded with studio equipment, including a Roland ProMars CompuPhonic.

See how Alan Wilder uses Roland MRS-2 ProMars

Alan Wilder

Drummer, Keyboardist

Depeche Mode

...
Verified via YouTube

Alan Wilder is playing a Roland ProMars, recognizable by the buttons at the beginning of the video.

See how Venetian Snares uses Roland MRS-2 ProMars

Venetian Snares

Music Producer

Speed Dealer Moms

...
Verified via Photo

This is one of many pieces of gear listed in a 2007 Computer Music feature on Venetian Snares.

See how Isao Tomita uses Roland MRS-2 ProMars

Isao Tomita

Keyboardist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Soundonsound

Although Tomita’s most notable synth acquisition was perhaps the Moog III, he became a big user of Roland hardware including the Jupiter 4, RS202 and MRS2 Promars.

See how Thorsten Quaeschning uses Roland MRS-2 ProMars

Thorsten Quaeschning

Singer, Keyboardist

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via Thorstenquaeschning

Equipment & Software used on 'SYNTHWAVES':THORSTEN QUAESCHNING: Software: Steinberg Cubase 8 &8.5Hardware: Manikin Schrittmacher Step-Sequencer x 2Manikin MemotronRoland Jupiter 8 synthesizerRoland JD800 synthesizerDave Smith Prophet 8 synthesizerARP Solina MK2 string synthesizerKorg Wavestation Ex synthesizerWaldorf Microwave synthesizerMoog Voyager monophonic synthesizerModular synthesizerRoland V Synth synthesizerKorg Z1 synthesiserKorg Prophecy synthesiserKorg M1 synthesizerClavia Nordwave synthesizerYamaha TG77 synthesizer moduleRoland System 1 synthesizerRoland JU06 synthesizer moduleKorg MS20 monophonic synthesizerRoland JP08 synthesizer moduleRoland TR-8 Rhythm Performer drum machineOberheim DMX drum machineRoland Promars synthesizerFender Starcaster guitarFender Telecaster guitarFender Stratocaster guitarScrewdriver on wood and contact microphones,Several boxes with contact microphonesA field recording of bees in Thorsten's garden, edited on Cubase and then treated with Melodyne & Halion - and finally used for the lead melody line on 'A Calm But Steady Flow'.(Software synthesizers): Spectrasonics Omnisphere synthesizer, Spectrasonics Keyscape

See how Martyn Ware uses Roland MRS-2 ProMars

Martyn Ware

Keyboardist

The Human League

...
Verified via kitmonsters.com

"At one point I was interested in kind of retrofitting MIDI to my analogue pieces, so I had like a Roland Promars, I had a Roland Jupiter-4 which had no MIDI on it so I got that retrofitted with some Kenton MIDI kit and then I had an outboard Kenton kit for the System-100. I used it, not very much to be honest, I kind of like the kind of hands on messiness of the non-MIDI connection, so as soon as the sampling element of everything got a lot simpler I just sampled bits that I wanted."

See how Matt Berry uses Roland MRS-2 ProMars

Matt Berry

Singer, Guitarist

The Desert Sessions

...
Verified via YouTube

Mentioned in this March 7, 2011 Roland & Boss TV interview at 4:59. It can also be seen in this picture used for the back cover of Music for Insomniacs.

So, I've got a Promars now, but that's just from seeing them, you know, on like, Top of the Pops as a kid... and a Jupiter-4, I haven't got a Jupiter-8... But yeah, you know, I love their keyboards.

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 MRS-2 ProMars, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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    Gear IQ 5227