Photo of Roland SH-2000 in a studio, synths, and closeup

Roland SH-2000

$298.54 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (6)

1 Critic Review

3 Reviews

Find out who is using Roland SH-2000

4 community setups

1 wishlisted

20 saved

Page last updated Jul 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 4, 2026.

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5.0 (1)

$298.54 13 available Used

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Average Price: $299

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Roland SH-2000 is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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Description

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Step back in time to the golden era of analog synthesis with the Roland SH-2000, a classic instrument that brings vintage charm to modern music production. This monophonic synthesizer, originally released in the early 1970s, is revered for its warm, rich sound and straightforward user interface, making it a favorite among musicians seeking that authentic retro vibe. Featuring 30 preset sounds, the SH-2000 allows for immediate creativity, from lush strings to quirky electronic textures, perfect for both studio sessions and live performances.

Despite its age, the SH-2000 remains relevant, offering a tactile experience through its aftertouch-sensitive keyboard and unique, easily accessible front-panel controls. This synth is particularly known for its distinctive filter section, which provides iconic sweeping effects that have been used in countless recordings over the decades. Its compact design and sturdy build ensure that it can withstand the rigors of gigging and frequent use.

For those who appreciate the fusion of classic and contemporary, the SH-2000 stands as a testament to Roland's innovative spirit, offering musicians a timeless piece of gear that continues to inspire creativity.

Key Features:

Monophonic analog synthesizer
30 Preset sounds for instant creativity
Aftertouch-sensitive keyboard for dynamic expression
Iconic filter section for unique sound shaping
Easy-to-navigate front-panel controls
Compact and durable design for portability and longevity

Product specs

Brand	Roland
Model	SH-2000 37-Key Synthesizer
Finish	Black
Year	1974 - 1979
Made In	Japan
Categories	Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Analog
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
Number of Keys	37 Keys
Polyphony	1 Voice

FAQs

Is the Roland SH-2000 an analog synthesizer?: Yes, the Roland SH-2000 is an analog synthesizer, known for its warm and classic analog sound.
How many keys does the Roland SH-2000 have?: The Roland SH-2000 features a 37-key keyboard with full-size keys, providing a comfortable playing experience.
What type of sound engine does the Roland SH-2000 use?: The Roland SH-2000 uses an analog sound engine, offering a monophonic voice with rich, vintage tones.
Is the Roland SH-2000 suitable for live performances?: The Roland SH-2000, with its compact design and expressive analog sound, is well-suited for live performances, especially for those seeking classic synth tones.
Does the Roland SH-2000 have any unique features?: The Roland SH-2000 is known for its preset sounds and expressive controls, such as aftertouch, which allow for dynamic performance capabilities.

Videos

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AnalogAudio1

ROLAND SH-2000 Analog Synthesizer 1974 | HD DEMO

AnalogAudio1

Roland SH-2000 demo

hamsterdunce

Synth solo with the analog vintage Roland SH 2000

magevers

Roland SH-2000 - Exploring the Presets - Midiverse - TV - MVM #61

Midiverse - TV

DEMO SYNTHESIZER ROLAND SH2000 -HD-

PianoVintage

The inspiring Roland SH-2000 Analog Synthesizer

Mano One

That Time Moog Sued Roland: The Moland SH2000

Alamo Music Sound Lab

ROLAND SH-2000 (1974)

Synthesizer Home

Roland SH 2000-Overview and Sounds

Mixing Mastering Online

ROLAND SH-2000 for sale - demo video

Matt Thomas Overdrive

Reviews

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PROS

Simplest synth, easy to use
Preset sounds with adjustable cut off frequency and resonance
Excellent after touch response
Delivers impressive sound with external effects
Durable, works as well as on day one
Unique "lo-fi" and soulful sound quality
Mechanical aftertouch offers a special keys feeling

CONS

Limited monosynth capabilities
Preset sounds may not impress everyone
Keys can be challenging to play

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland SH-2000.

Features and functionality

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The SH-2000 lacks CV/gate and MIDI, making it less versatile for modern setups without modifications.
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The SH-2000 offers very responsive aftertouch, enhancing its playability and expressiveness.
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Two versions of the filter exist, with the earliest possibly infringing on Moog's patent; later models include transistors as diodes in the ladder.
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The SH-2000's "Tuba" preset produces an intentional high-pitched overtone at low notes, which is characteristic of its oscillator design.
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Mods and upgrades

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Some owners have added CV/Gate functionality, which is reportedly uncomplicated to implement.
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A preset mixing mod is recommended for increasing tonal range, revealing the synth's hidden potential like multiple waveshaping options and three LFOs.
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Comparisons

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The SH-2000's oscillator produces a saw wave from stacked square waves, causing high-pitched overtones in low octaves, unlike pure saw oscillators.
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The SH-2000's filter design is noted to closely resemble Moog's, particularly in the second version, potentially bypassing patent issues.
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User experience

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It's noted for being heavy with a subpar keyboard, affecting portability and playability.
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One owner highlighted the "fuzz guitar 2" preset as a likely favorite of the original owner, hinting at its distinctive sound appeal.
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Use cases and applications

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Initially designed for use with transistor organs, which influences its aesthetic and functional integration.
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The SH-2000's aftertouch feature, referred to as "touch effect," remains operational and enhances playability when all keys are functioning.
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Value and pricing

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The SH-2000 can sell for 10-14 times the price found at resale shops, but shipping can be difficult due to its weight and design.
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Setup and maintenance

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The most frequent fault reported is with the power switch, which owners often need to address.
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Some sliders may require contact spray to ensure smooth operation, particularly if the synth has been in storage for years.
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Users recommend inspecting for bulging capacitors and leaking electrolyte before powering on to prevent potential damage, especially if the synth hasn't been used in decades.
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Critic Reviews

Roland SH-2000

defectivenation.co.uk

The Roland SH-2000 is a vintage synth with a surprisingly powerful sound that defies its monophonic limitations. While its presets and lack of modern controls may seem restrictive, this "performance synth" shines with expressive aftertouch capabilities. The unique preset system, though not user-friendly, offers a range of sounds reminiscent of the Moog modular at a fraction of the cost. Its aesthetics and limited fame among musicians might deter some, but for those willing to master its quirks, the SH-2000 delivers rich, versatile tones that can stand out in a mix.

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Full Review

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 6 Ratings

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1 star

maranaspacemarine

257

over 1 year ago

Vintage classic

Got this as an alternative to Korg M-500 MicroPreset. Not nearly as good sound, but it holds it's own. Has a surprisingly nice playability for it's age, if you're a keyboard player.

Roles:

Music Producer

Genres:

Trance Uplifting trance Eurodance

From Gear Setup

robpreuss

over 11 years ago

My first synthesizer!

I got my Roland SH-2000 in 1977. My parents bought it for me, and it was a complete surprise to me.........i still have it, and it still works as good as the first day i played it---- i used it in our (Spoons) Nova Heart video, and for years it had shiny, reflective tape on the black keys, which looked cool in the video, but was impossible to get off. i did finally.

tehu

163

almost 8 years ago

Synth with soul!

This is a pretty limited monosynth, the presets are not so great.. but, the sound is soulfull and ''lo-fi'', almost alive when you play it well! The keys feeling is special (With the mechanical aftertouch), not that easy to play. Using it almost in live situation, great duality with my saxophone player!