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Average Price: $1,114
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$500
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Description
Discover the iconic Roland SH-101 Synthesizer, a musical instrument that's been at the forefront of techno and acid house music since 1982. This synthesizer is a monophonic bass powerhouse, and its simplicity is one of its biggest strengths. The SH-101 boasts a single oscillator with mixable waveforms, giving you the freedom to craft your unique sound. It's also equipped with CV/Gate control, a 100-step sequencer, and an arpeggiator, providing you with a wide range of creative possibilities. This synthesizer was available in a spectrum of colors, including gray, blue, red, and a rare white finish, and even featured an optional hand grip controller for keytar performances. Renowned artists like Orbital, The Prodigy, Aphex Twin, Devo, Boards of Canada, and Future Sound of London have all harnessed the power of the Roland SH-101.
Key Features:
- Analog monophonic bass synthesizer
- Single oscillator with mixable waveforms
- CV/Gate control
- 100-step sequencer
- Arpeggiator
- Multiple color options (gray, blue, red, and a rare white finish)
- Optional hand grip controller for keytar performance
- Endorsed by numerous renowned artists
Product specs
| Brand | Roland |
| Model | SH-101 32-Key Monophonic Synthesizer |
| Finish | Blue, Gray, Red |
| Year | 1982 - 1986 |
| Made In | Japan, United States |
| 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-101 suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Roland SH-101 is popular for live performances due to its compact size, intuitive interface, and the ability to produce rich analog sounds. Its portability and ease of use make it ideal for on-stage use.
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What type of synthesis does the Roland SH-101 use?
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The Roland SH-101 uses analog synthesis, providing a warm, classic sound that is highly sought after for its rich basslines and distinctive leads.
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Does the Roland SH-101 have built-in effects?
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The Roland SH-101 does not have built-in effects. It focuses on providing pure analog sounds, which can be further enhanced with external effects processors or pedals.
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Can the Roland SH-101 be battery-powered?
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Yes, the Roland SH-101 can be powered by batteries, making it a versatile option for musicians who need portability and the ability to perform without being tethered to a power outlet.
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How many keys does the Roland SH-101 have?
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The Roland SH-101 features a 32-key keyboard with full-size keys, offering a comfortable playing experience for synthesizer enthusiasts.
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What are the color options available for the Roland SH-101?
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The Roland SH-101 is available in three colors: blue, gray, and red, allowing users to choose a finish that suits their style preferences.
Videos
loopop
Roland SH-101 vs Behringer MS-101/MS-1: Can you hear the difference?
Roland SH-101 vs Behringer MS-101/MS-1: Can you hear the difference?
loopop
Mathew Jonson Presents His Synthesizer Favourites: Roland SH-101 (Part 1of 2)
Telekom Electronic Beats TV
The Roland SH101 In Action
Doctor Mix
Classic, Simple, & Still Very Special // Roland's SH-101
Jorb
Roland SH 101 Famous Songs and Sounds
Nicolas Melis
How to use a Roland SH101 Analog Synth complete guided tour
TONELAB
World's Greatest Mono Synth: Roland SH-101
Alamo Music Sound Lab
Reviews
PROS
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Filter growls and howls, excellent for bass
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Unique and punchy sound quality
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Simple, user-friendly sequencer
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Amazing for techno and electronic music
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Iconic sound that's stood the test of time
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Versatile for many styles of music
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Step sequencer simplicity and effectiveness
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Can produce both classic and unique sounds
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Great for both beginners and experienced users
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Durable and reliable over time
CONS
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Single oscillator, LFO, and EG limits versatility
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Pricey compared to similar models
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Power button can cause issues
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Limited integration in modern workflows
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Loses memory when turned off
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Basic feature set compared to earlier SH models
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland SH-101.
Features and functionality
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The SH-101's trig in allows separation of rhythm from note order, enabling evolving patterns, especially beneficial for rhythm-centric music styles.
Source -
The SH-101 is praised for its extremely snappy envelopes, which are particularly effective when used in arpeggiated sequences.
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The Curtis 3340 analog oscillator chip is part of the SH-101, though its full functionality is underutilized.
Source
Comparisons
User experience
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Owners note the SH-101 is intuitive for quick melodic and bass recording, making it inspiring for certain users despite its limitations.
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Some owners find the Behringer MS-1's keybed unsatisfactory, indicating a potential drawback for those sensitive to key feel.
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Owners appreciate the SH-101's straightforward, accessible internal layout, enhancing its appeal for maintenance and modification.
Source
Value and pricing
Use cases and applications
Build quality
Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 19 Reviews and 92 Ratings
103
Roland SH-101 Endless Sounds
After watching the videos and comparing the analog sh-101 sound to the VA Roland release via boutique, I had to have the real thing. I am not disappointed. The Roland SH-101 is a very capable synths, it has a sound like no other on the planet. Some may disagree but I find it very unique in sound. Its a keeper for sure. I originally got a Novation BSII because some said it was a poor man's SH 101, I can tell you that even though BSII is a great synth, it is no SH-101.
770
Translated Title: I love its sound Translated Comment Body: I've been a user of it for many years and the truth is that its simplicity is accompanied by great versatility and a grandiose sound. It is a key piece
I love its sound
This review has been translated automatically into English. See originalPreferred Settings + Usage:
https://youtu.be/aP7VAlb70MI
3982
Not just a bass machine
Yes, the SH-101 is known for bass primarily. But do some higher stuff, add a bit of the gorgeous PWM, put it through a tape delay and...bang! You've discovered the secret to the Boards of Canada sound, early Squarepusher and so on.
It's a classic for a reason. Nothing else sounds quite like it - not even Arturia's Minibrute, which I think was an attempt to get close.
41029
I always think of a Guy Called Gerald when I think of the 101, those non-303 acid lines
58
Cool synth no Midi
I love the step sequencer and transpose, I used to run a sequence and tape down the transpose button so you could swap chords
88
Nothing to regret, lots to gain.
The most straight forward synth with the most rewarding sound. a classic. will not dwell on whom used it but know this, its there in lots records, shining like the sun !!! Also, the sequencer is very mystique :)
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160
absolutely sexy sound 10/10 didn’t regret buying
absolutely awesome muthafukihg gangsta ass good synth my man, roland pls start rereleasing.
Preferred Settings + Usage:
polynomial c patch :D
815
My first ever synth!
I still have this synth my parents bought me when I was in high school in the 80's. Have the handle and strap...the whole deal and it still works beautifully though difficult to work into my workflow it always comforts me just to see it there on the stand waiting to rise up again! hehe
2259
So simple yet so equisite
There are other synths that sound fuller and that I use more often, this synth is by and large very simple. But man that filter is just really liquid and wonderful. It sounds good in leads and basses.
Artist usage
Add artist
Although boasting a lush sound, the album was recorded largely at Paul's Rhythm Ranch studio on a single tascam 16-track with a Studiomaster desk. Synths used include: Roland D-50, Akai S1000 and S3000, Kork M1R, Waldorf Microwave, Roland Super Jupiter module, Oberheim Matrix 1000, Yamaha TX802, Minimoog, MIDIMoog, Oberheim Two-Voice, Roland Jupiter 8 and SH-101.
The studio photos at the end of the Mixmag article show close-ups of some gear, including his SH-101 synth.
This synthesizer can be seen at 52:02 into this video.
Youth professes an affection for analogue keyboards and a strong dislike of FM synthesis. "I don't like modern keyboards too much. I leave them to jingle writers. Those modern sounds are so associative of those advertising images that I prefer to stay well away from them. But of course they end up using your music anyway [laughs]." The only modern keyboard which has his approval is the Roland JD800, because of its "analogue versatility. It's hands-on, direct communication with the machine, rather than numerical, mathematical communication. You can change the sounds very quickly. One of the most important things with equipment is how much time they take to use and program." Hence the presence of keyboards like Alpha Juno 2, Juno 106, Oberheim OB-X (MIDI), SH101 + MCV, Korg MS1, Proteus, Proteus World, plus of course the JD800 in the main studio in the basement. There are also the well tested TR808 and 909, plus Akais S1000 and S1100.
Martyn Ware is featured on KitMonsters, where the Roland SH-101 is listed among the Roland gear he uses.
A Roland SH-101 can be seen in his studio
"At home, their analogue catalog includes two Moog sources, Sequential Circuits Prophet-T8 ("the supreme mother of synthesizers"), Memorymoog, ARP Odyssey and 2600, Roland SH-101 and SH-7, and a Minimoog, " that I didn't use much, because it was a mistake. "
In a YouTube video, Aeroplane refers to the Roland SH-101 as a "beginner's synth," indicating their familiarity and use of the instrument.
The Roland SH-101 Synthesizer can be seen at 0.42 into the video
In this Slices Tech Talk, Electronic Beats TV looks to delve into the heart of Ian Pooley's Berlin studio
As per this article, David A. Stewart had a Roland SH-101 for writing material on the road, alongside a Sequential Circuits Six-Trak.
Album Usage
The Roland SH-101 has been featured on the following albums:
Alamak (Dipha Barus Remix)
Dipha Barus (2025)
Talking Sleep
Matthew Dear (2022)
Songs of Vienna
Cid Rim (2021)
Careful
Boy Harsher (2019)
Transmission Suite
808 State (2019)
3L3C7RO COMMANDO
Anthony Rother (2018)
Metamatic
John Foxx (2018)
Happysad
Kiefer (2018)
Small Moon
Chris Carter (2018)
Cryosleep
Kurt Uenala (2017)
Roller
Digitalism (2015)
Fading Love
George FitzGerald (2015)
Syro
Aphex Twin (2014)
More Music for the Jilted Generation
The Prodigy & The Prodigy (2008)
The Warning
Hot Chip (2006)
Thrills
Ellen Allien (2005)
Destroy Rock & Roll
Mylo (2005)
Tweekend
The Crystal Method (2001)
Live at Brixton Academy 1999
Atari Teenage Riot (2000)
Generation Starwars
Alec Empire (2000)
Vegas
The Crystal Method (1997)
Poison
The Prodigy & The Prodigy (1995)
Selected Ambient Works 85-92
Aphex Twin (1992)
Doctor Who: Ghost Light (Original Television Soundtrack)
Mark Ayres & Keff McCulloch (1989)
That Total Age
Nitzer Ebb (1987)
Beat Boy
Visage (1984)
You And Me Both
Yazoo (1983)
Oh No! It's Devo
Devo (1982)
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-101, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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Community setups
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Similar
Add recommendation6 alternative and related items for Roland SH-101, curated by the Equipboard community.
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The SH-01A is a DSP-based emulation of the SH-101 in a desktop module format. While it's not a true analog synth like the original, it IS (unlike the original) 4-voice polyphonic and capable of storing patches.
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This is Roland's official software emulation of their classic SH-101.
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TAL's software emulation of the SH-101 utilizes a zero feedback delay filter design for a very responsive, musical, and accurate 101 recreation.
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