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Average Price: $750
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Description
Dive into the authentic world of analog synthesis with the Roland SH-09 Synthesizer, a classic instrument cherished by vintage synth enthusiasts and modern musicians alike. The SH-09 is a monophonic synthesizer that delivers a rich, warm sound, perfect for both studio production and live performances. This classic piece of gear is renowned for its simple yet powerful design, featuring a single oscillator with a choice of three waveforms, alongside a sub-oscillator for deepening your sonic palette.
The SH-09's intuitive layout makes it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the fundamentals of sound design without being overwhelmed by unnecessary complexity. Its resonant filter and envelope controls provide expressive modulation options, allowing you to shape your sound with precision. Whether you're crafting bass lines, leads, or effects, the SH-09 offers the versatility and character needed to stand out in any mix.
Key Features:
- Monophonic synth with a single oscillator and sub-oscillator
- Offers sawtooth, square, and pulse waveforms
- Classic filter section with resonance and envelope controls
- Built-in external audio input for processing other signals
- Compact design perfect for both studio and stage use
- Intuitive interface, great for beginners and seasoned synthesists alike
Product specs
| Brand | Roland |
| Model | SH-09 32-Key Monophonic Synthesizer |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1978 - 1982 |
| Categories | Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths |
| Analog / Digital | Analog |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| Number of Keys | 32 Keys |
| Polyphony | 1 Voice |
FAQs
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Is the Roland SH-09 synthesizer monophonic or polyphonic?
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The Roland SH-09 is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can play only one note at a time, which is ideal for bass lines and lead sounds.
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What type of synthesis does the Roland SH-09 use?
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The Roland SH-09 uses analog synthesis, which is known for producing warm and rich sounds, characteristic of vintage synthesizers.
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How many keys does the Roland SH-09 have?
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The Roland SH-09 features a 32-key keyboard with full-size, synth-action keys, suitable for expressive playing.
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What are the standout features of the Roland SH-09's sound engine?
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The Roland SH-09's sound engine includes a single oscillator with multiple waveforms, a noise generator, and a resonant low-pass filter, allowing for a wide range of classic analog sounds.
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Is the Roland SH-09 suitable for live performance?
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Yes, the Roland SH-09 is suitable for live performance due to its straightforward interface and robust build, making it easy to tweak sounds on the fly.
Videos
Perfect Circuit
Roland SH-09 Analog Synthesizer Demo
Roland SH-09 Analog Synthesizer Demo
Perfect Circuit
The Roland SH-09 (higher quality)
AutomaticGainsay
ROLAND SH-09 Analog Synthesizer 1979 | HD DEMO
AnalogAudio1
Roland SH-09 the SH-101's Dark Sister | CONFORCE
Conforce
Vintage vs Modern: Worth It? Roland Mono Synths | SH-101 vs SH-09 vs SH-2 vs MS-1 vs Minibrute 2
Alamo Music Sound Lab
Roland SH-09 and Fender Rhodes with tape delay
Benjamin Dehli
Roland SH 09 Sound Demo (no talking)
Bonedo Synthesizers
EMEAPP SONIC TEST DRIVE: ROLAND SH-09 Feat. DON SLEPIAN
EMEAPP
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland SH-09 Synthesizer.
Comparisons
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The SH-09 is perceived by some owners as having superior oscillators compared to the SH-101, offering a "fatter" sound especially noted in its PWM capabilities.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The SH-09 is praised for its bass capabilities and unique ability to produce "old sci-fi computer noises," making it a versatile choice for different musical styles.
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Mods and upgrades
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Modding the mixer section to route the noise source to the external input level control is a recommended upgrade for increased functionality.
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Using a TD-3 as a MIDI to CV through box allows for external sequence control.
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Replacing worn carbon tracks in sliders with scavenged parts from other devices can restore functionality without high cost.
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Setup and maintenance
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Cleaning and maintaining the sliders is essential for optimal performance, with some owners wishing for more readily available replacement parts.
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Owners recommend checking rotary switches for pitch drops and cleaning contacts to prevent intermittent key issues.
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Neoprene-like slider gaskets deteriorate, causing debris in sliders; replacing them with stiffened acrylic felt is recommended for smoother operation.
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Main caps on the power board may need replacement due to aging; careful inspection is advised to avoid unnecessary recapping.
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User experience
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Owners frequently express regret over selling the SH-09, highlighting its enduring appeal and the difficulty of finding one at a reasonable price later on.
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Build quality
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The waveform rotary knob can become loose and scratchy, impacting smooth waveform transitions.
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Ribbon cables between PCBs are fragile, and the glue for strain relief can bond the control PCB to the case, complicating disassembly.
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Original sliders are Alps pots with part number '171M'; finding modern equivalents may require matching these specifications.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 10 Ratings
My first synth
My first synth and still going strong, bought in 1981. It has one oscillator and a sub-oscillator it sounds huge.
101
First pro synth
Saved all my paper round money for one of these. learnt my craft even though monophonic , great sounds.
Artist usage
Add artist
Carl Cox utilizes the Roland SH-09 Synthesizer in his project "Carl Cox Collective - My Life In Music," as featured on Loopmasters.
In an article where Orbital talks about the gear they used on The Blue Album, they talk about the Roland SH-09. Paul Hartnoll says it's "...still a personal favorite of mine. I know there are so many bigger-sounding synths out there, but we always go back to the SH-09 for bass lines. It just has this direct, head-first sort of feel about it. I even pitted it against an Andromeda to get the bass line, and I ended up conceding and had to use the SH-09."
In an article from Muzines titled "Vince Clarke’s Wall Of Sound," Vince Clarke mentions using the Roland SH-09 Synthesizer as a general analog keyboard. While he appreciates its tight envelope, he notes that he doesn't use it for bass because it lacks the necessary weight compared to other options like the Minimoog.
In a June 1995 Sound On Sound interview, Utley said:
"The sound is worked on by our engineer Dave McDonald, Geoff and myself. The sound sources we use are very particular and very 'worked on'. For example, a synth sound from a Roland SH09, which is integral to a new track we've been working on, relies heavily on a valve reverb which is immensely important to the sound. The synth itself is also important, so I tend to collect all sorts of instruments, keyboards, guitars and effects. 'Sound shaping' involves whatever I put onto tape sounding pretty much like the finished result."
Stott is qouting as using an SH-09 which belongs to Miles of Demdike Stare in this interview.
"But the SH-09 is his actually, so we’re trading off. And the SH-09 has started doing some funny things since I’ve had it, so I don’t think he’ll be too pleased about that. [laughs]"
Right next his Six Trak in this photo of Gui Boratto in his studio, a Roland SH-09 can be seen.
In an interview featured on Absolute Music, Mr. Oizo discusses his use of the Roland SH-09 Synthesizer, highlighting its role in his music production.
This article states that Cocker used a Roland SH-09 Synth.
In the interview "A Dose Of Keyboard Fever," Lol Tolhurst mentions, "We used to have an old Roland string machine as well, an SH-09 or something like that." Although he refers to the RS-09, which The Cure frequently used during the Pornography era, this statement highlights a common mix-up due to the similar appearance of the SH-09.
Album Usage
The Roland SH-09 Synthesizer 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 SH-09 Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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