Roland SC-88

$399.99

1 Critic Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated May 30, 2026

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$351.99 1 available Used

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Description

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The Roland SC-88 is a classic sound module that holds its place in the annals of music production history. Known for its extensive library of 654 instrument sounds and 22 drum kits, the SC-88 was a game-changer when it hit the market, and it continues to be a beloved piece of gear for musicians and producers alike. Whether you're working in a studio or performing live, this module offers a robust array of sounds that can adapt to any musical genre, from rock to orchestral.

Designed with user-friendliness in mind, the SC-88 features an intuitive interface that allows both seasoned professionals and beginners to easily navigate through its rich sound palette. Its General MIDI compatibility ensures seamless integration with both modern and legacy MIDI setups, making it a versatile choice for anyone looking to expand their sonic possibilities. The SC-88 also includes a built-in effects processor, offering a range of reverb and chorus effects to enhance your sound.

For those who appreciate hardware that stands the test of time, the Roland SC-88 is a testament to quality engineering and musical versatility. It's ideal for musicians who need reliable, high-quality sound options without the fuss of overly complex programming.

Key Features:

654 instrument sounds and 22 drum kits
General MIDI compatibility
Built-in effects processor with reverb and chorus
Intuitive user interface for easy navigation
Suitable for a wide range of musical genres
Reliable integration with both modern and legacy MIDI setups

Videos

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RMC - The Cave

486 Trash to Treasure Pt2 | Sound & the Roland SC-88

RMC - The Cave

Roland SC-88 Sound Canvas Demo

kora kuma

Roland SC-88 Sound Canvas

retrosacom

[PC OST] Final Fantasy VII 7 General MIDI Soundtrack | Roland SC-88

R3dRuM

How to factory reset (initialize) Roland SC-88.

Quiege Hattle

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland SC-88.

Features and functionality

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The SC-88 offers 32 MIDI channels, allowing for extensive layering of sounds, making it versatile for complex arrangements.
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The SC-88 requires using MIDI Channel "B01" when using the front MIDI input, as opposed to the "A01" to "A16" channels.
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Use cases and applications

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Users enjoy the SC-88 for producing 90’s RPG-style music, appreciating its nostalgic sound and built-in effects like chorus and reverb.
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Software and compatibility

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Roland's VST for the Sound Canvas series integrates SC-88 features and effects, suitable for use in modern DAWs like Ableton for a nostalgic sound.
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User experience

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Owners find the SC-88's VCR-style form factor facilitates deep menu navigation, enhancing creative sound design through extensive MIDI implementation.
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The SC-88's buttons can display instrument changes on the screen even if the sound remains unchanged, requiring additional MIDI program adjustments on the controller.
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Comparisons

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The SC-88 is noted for having sufficient drum sets, with some users forgetting the Pro version exists, indicating satisfaction with the standard model's offerings.
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Setup and maintenance

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Owners face challenges removing specific layered voices once set, as the manual lacks clear instructions beyond muting them.
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Critic Reviews

Roland SC88

soundonsound.com

The Roland SC-88 pushes the boundaries of General MIDI sound modules, boasting impressive sound quality and extensive customization options. With 64-voice polyphony and 32-part multitimbrality, it shines in versatility for a range of musical genres. However, it falls short with a confusing user manual and the inability to name user-edited sounds, which can hinder workflow. While the onboard effects and diverse sound palette are commendable, the high price tag may deter budget-conscious musicians. Overall, the SC-88 stands as a robust tool for MIDI-based compositions, but its quirks and limitations keep it from being a clear standout.

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