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Description

Step into a world of rich, vintage soundscapes with the Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII. This classic synthesizer is a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern utility, making it a favorite among musicians who appreciate the authentic organ and string ensemble tones. Featuring dual sound generation, the RS-09 MKII allows you to seamlessly blend organ and string sounds, offering a versatile sonic palette that is both lush and expressive. Its intuitive interface ensures that both seasoned players and newcomers can easily access its wide range of sounds and modulation options.

Designed with performance in mind, the RS-09 MKII is equipped with user-friendly controls that allow for quick adjustments whether you're on stage or in the studio. The synthesizer's ensemble chorus effect enhances its sound with a warm, rich texture that adds depth to your music, making each note resonate with clarity and emotion. This instrument is a great choice for those looking to add classic character and versatility to their sound arsenal.

Whether you're crafting ambient soundscapes or need reliable organ tones for your next gig, the RS-09 MKII delivers with precision and style. Explore its sonic capabilities and experience the timeless allure of Roland's legendary sound design.

Key Features:

  • Dual sound generation with organ and string tones
  • Ensemble chorus effect for enhanced sound depth
  • Intuitive interface for easy sound manipulation
  • Ideal for live performances and studio work
  • Classic design with modern functionality

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model RS-09 44-Key Organ / String Synthesizer
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

What type of sounds can the Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII produce?

The Roland RS-09 is known for its rich analog organ tones and lush string sounds, making it ideal for creating warm, vintage textures in your music.

Is the Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII polyphonic or monophonic?

The Roland RS-09 is polyphonic, capable of producing up to 64 voices, allowing for complex chordal textures and rich harmonic layering.

What is the keyboard action like on the Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII?

The RS-09 features a synth action keyboard with 44 full-size keys, offering a responsive feel suitable for both organ and string performances.

Can the Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII be used for live performances?

Yes, the RS-09 is well-suited for live performances thanks to its robust build and classic analog sound, providing reliable and expressive playability on stage.

What makes the Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII unique compared to other vintage synthesizers?

The RS-09 stands out for its combination of organ and string sounds, enhanced by a lush ensemble effect, delivering a distinctive and warm vintage sound signature.

ohm_studi_ohm

ohm_studi_ohm

Roland RS-09 MKII string and organ synth

Video thumbnail for Roland RS-09 MKII string and organ synth by ohm_studi_ohm

Roland RS-09 MKII string and organ synth

ohm_studi_ohm

ohm_studi_ohm

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional durability, lasting over 25 years

  • Produces a thunderous Cathedral Organ sound

  • Strings shimmer through the right reverb/Delay

  • Two string voices with lush, hypnotizing ensemble filter

  • Organ sounds are flexible and fun

  • Vintage look adds aesthetic appeal

  • Recognized for its use by iconic band The Cure

CONS

  • Limited range of sounds available

  • Requires external effects for full potential

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII.

Features and functionality

  • The RS-09's string section has a unique envelope that resets on trigger, typical of paraphonic synths sharing a single oscillator across multiple notes.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The RS-09, when combined with the SH-09 via 'organ out' and 'gate out,' offers a polyphonic experience, unlike the SH-2 which features an additional oscillator.

    Source
  • Owners describe the RS-09 as warmer than the Solina, with a preference for the organ feature that enhances its overall sound.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Running the RS-09 through reverb, tape delay, or chorus pedals significantly enhances its sound, making it ideal for atmospheric music production.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Vintage Roland string machines like the RS-09 are frequently found at affordable prices on platforms like eBay, with some selling for as low as £200.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners consistently praise the RS-09's ability to produce meaty bass and well-rounded highs, contributing to its underrated status in the string synth category.

    Source
  • The RS-09 is often described as "huge" sounding when the organ and string sections are combined, delivering a full-bodied sound that is highly appreciated by users.

    Source

Build quality

  • A common issue noted is missing switch caps, particularly on the organ button, which does not affect functionality but is a cosmetic concern.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 12 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
raphael_pochet

RS-09 MKI & MKII

The pic shows the MKII, I have the MKI ... Vintage look and best friend of the SH-09

D

I am in fact thankful to the holder of this web site who has shared this fantastic post at at this place.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Robert Smith uses Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII

Robert Smith

Guitarist, Singer

The Cure

...
Verified via Wikicure

Smith can be seen playing a Roland RS-09 in a photo on this site.

See how Jay Watson uses Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII

Jay Watson

Guitarist, Drummer

Tame Impala

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see the guy in the red sweatshirt playing a rs-09 (you see the roland sign and sometimes you see the keys and potentiometer of the synth that look exactly like a rs-09)

See how Unknown Mortal Orchestra uses Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII

Unknown Mortal Orchestra

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this interview with Reverb, Ruban describes the Synths used in their new record "Multi-Love." He mentions the RS-09, not to be confused with the Saturn 09. The RS-09 is differs from the Saturn 09 in having both Organ and String sounds.

See how Merzbow uses Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII

Merzbow

Composer, Music Producer

Kikuri

...
Verified via Discogs

The Roland Organ/String 09 is listed on the album Eucalypse.

See how Don Airey uses Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII

Don Airey

Keyboardist

Judas Priest

...
Verified via YouTube

Can be seen in the live version of Mr Crowley below his Moog. He's playing the chord parts with the Roland RS-09.

See how Juan Atkins uses Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII

Juan Atkins

Music Producer

Cybotron

...
Verified via MusicRadar

"Back then I was also using a Sequential Pro-One keyboard, a Roland RS-09 string synth, an ARP Odyssey and an ARP Axxe. And I had a Boss DR-55 and then an 808, obviously, when they first came out."

See how survive uses Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII

survive

...
Verified via YouTube

1:30 : the ROLAND RS-09 can be seen in the studio of S U R V I V E.

See how Lustmord uses Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII

Lustmord

Music Producer

SPK

...
Verified via reddit

"Just stumbled on Lustmord's Studio gear list. Ok so not strictly noise, but no doubt you have heard of Lustmord's dark ambient work. So I found on his website a list of what he uses in the studio..."

See how Jason Lytle uses Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII

Jason Lytle

Singer

Grandaddy

...
Verified via Photo

On the far right note the 70s cosmetic Roland RS-09 Organ/String machine nest to the EP-09.

J

Joakim

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via CROWDSPACER STUDIO NYC

According to a list of equipment which is used in his studio, Crowdspacer, Joakim is also a user of Roland RS-09.

See how Télépopmusik uses Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII

Télépopmusik

Music Producer

Télépopmusik

...
Verified via Photo

We can see in this Instagram picture that they use RS-09.

See how Jerome Froese uses Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII

Jerome Froese

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via Jeromefroese

Found on Jerome's Website.

Album Usage

The Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII 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 RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1 alternative for Roland RS-09 Organ Strings 09 MKII, curated by the Equipboard community.

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