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Average Price: $3,200
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$1501+
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Description
The Roland RS-505 is a synthesizer that seamlessly blends the rich textures of analog synthesis with the cutting-edge precision of digital technology. This unique hybrid approach makes it a standout choice for musicians seeking versatility and depth in their soundscapes. The RS-505 is part of Roland's renowned synthesizer lineup, known for crafting instruments that are both innovative and reliable.
At the heart of the RS-505 is its distinctive polyphonic capabilities, offering a lush and expansive sound palette that can cater to a wide range of musical genres. With its intuitive interface, musicians of all levels can easily explore and manipulate sounds, making it equally suited for studio work or live performances. The RS-505 is equipped with a variety of oscillators, filters, and modulation options, allowing for intricate sound shaping and dynamic expression.
Whether you’re crafting ambient soundscapes, driving basslines, or soaring leads, the RS-505 provides the tools needed to create your own unique sonic signature. Its robust build ensures durability, while its connectivity options offer seamless integration into any setup, whether you're using it as a standalone instrument or part of a larger MIDI configuration.
Key Features:
- Hybrid synthesis engine combining analog warmth with digital precision
- Polyphonic capabilities for complex and layered sound production
- Intuitive interface for easy sound manipulation
- Wide range of oscillators, filters, and modulation options
- Suitable for studio recording and live performances
- Robust build with versatile connectivity options for integration into various setups
Product specs
| Brand | Roland |
| Model | RS-505 49-Key Paraphonic Synthesizer |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1978 - 1981 |
| Categories | Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths |
| Analog / Digital | Analog |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| Number of Keys | 49 Keys |
| Polyphony | 16 Voices |
FAQs
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What type of synthesis does the Roland RS-505 use?
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The Roland RS-505 is an analog synthesizer that features paraphonic synthesis, allowing multiple notes to be played simultaneously while sharing a single filter and amplifier.
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How many keys does the Roland RS-505 have and what is their size?
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The Roland RS-505 has 49 full-size keys with a synth action, providing a comfortable playing experience for musicians familiar with standard keyboard dimensions.
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What is the polyphony capability of the Roland RS-505?
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The Roland RS-505 offers 16-voice polyphony, allowing you to play up to 16 notes at once, making it suitable for complex chords and layered sounds.
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Is the Roland RS-505 suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Roland RS-505's full-size keys and 16-voice polyphony make it a versatile choice for live performances, especially for those seeking classic analog sounds.
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What are the standout features of the Roland RS-505's sound engine?
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The Roland RS-505 is known for its rich, warm analog sound, achieved through its paraphonic synthesis and classic Roland filters, which are ideal for vintage-style pads and leads.
Videos
Tim Oliver
Paraphonic Strings & El Capistan : That Vangelis Blade Runner Sound
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland RS-505.
Setup and maintenance
Features and functionality
Use cases and applications
Comparisons
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The Boutique-series VP vocoder shares a similar string engine but lacks the bass and synth engines found in the RS-505.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In this photo, Stewart Copeland can be seen playing a Roland RS-505 Paraphonic string synthesizer. He used it on early 80s Police records Zenyatta Mondatta (for the organ sound in "Bombs Away", for example) and Ghost In The Machine ("Rehumanize Yourself" and "Darkness", though it may also appear on other songs too), followed by the Rumblefish soundtrack in 1984 (for which it was part of his so-called "demo station", a photo of which is included on The Police Wiki page for the soundtrack).
David Rosenthal is confirmed to use the Roland RS-505 Paraphonic String Synthesizer as part of his keyboard rig, as detailed on his official website.
You can see the RS-505 in Anthony Marinelli's cover photo on his Facebook page, although he doesn't use it often in many of his videos on YouTube.
Album Usage
The Roland RS-505 has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland RS-505, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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