Roland SH-3A Synthesizer

$739.32 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (8)

3 Reviews

Find out who is using Roland SH-3A

3 wishlisted

12 saved

Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 3, 2026.

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3.0 (2)

$739.32 8 available Used

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Average Price: $739

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Roland SH-3A Synthesizer is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Description

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Step into a world of sonic exploration with the Roland SH-3A Synthesizer, a compact yet powerful synthesizer that invites both novice and seasoned musicians to craft unique soundscapes. Inspired by classic analog synths, the SH-3A offers a rich, full-bodied sound that stands out in any musical setting. Whether you're layering lush pads or creating punchy bass lines, this synthesizer provides a highly intuitive interface that encourages creativity without overwhelming complexity.

The SH-3A is equipped with a versatile set of controls, including multiple oscillators, a filter section, and a dedicated LFO, allowing you to shape and modulate your sound with precision. Its onboard arpeggiator and sequencer open up endless possibilities for dynamic live performances and intricate studio compositions. With a comprehensive range of presets and user memory slots, customizing your signature sound has never been easier.

Designed for portability without compromising on features, the SH-3A is perfect for musicians on the go. Connect seamlessly to your setup with MIDI and audio connections, and enjoy the freedom of battery or AC power options. Its robust build ensures durability, making it a reliable companion for gigs and studio sessions alike.

Key Features:

37-note velocity-sensitive keyboard
Multiple oscillators with extensive modulation options
Built-in arpeggiator and step sequencer
Classic filter section with resonance control
Extensive connectivity with MIDI and audio I/O
Portable design with battery and AC power options
User memory slots for custom sounds and presets

Product specs

Brand	Roland
Model	SH-3A 44-Key Synthesizer
Finish	Black
Year	1974 - 1978
Categories	Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Analog
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
Number of Keys	44 Keys
Polyphony	1 Voice

FAQs

Is the Roland SH-3A Synthesizer monophonic or polyphonic?: The Roland SH-3A Synthesizer is monophonic, meaning it can play only one note at a time, making it ideal for bass lines and lead melodies.
What type of synthesis does the Roland SH-3A use?: The Roland SH-3A utilizes analog synthesis, which is known for producing warm and rich sound textures typical of vintage synthesizers.
How many keys does the Roland SH-3A Synthesizer have?: The Roland SH-3A Synthesizer features 44 full-size keys, providing a broad range for playing expressive melodies and basslines.
What is the keyboard action type of the Roland SH-3A?: The Roland SH-3A Synthesizer has a synth action keyboard, which is designed for fast and responsive playing, suitable for dynamic performance.
When was the Roland SH-3A Synthesizer produced?: The Roland SH-3A Synthesizer was produced between 1974 and 1978, making it a classic piece of analog synthesizer history.

Videos

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Doctor Mix

The Roland SH-3A In Action - Part 1/2

Doctor Mix

The Roland SH-3A In Action - Part 2/2

Doctor Mix

The Roland SH-3A Part 1 (high quality)

AutomaticGainsay

The Roland SH-3A Part Two (high quality)

AutomaticGainsay

The Roland SH-3a as an ambient power tool?

Frönäs

First Patch - Roland SH-3A | Red Bull Music Academy

Red Bull Music Academy

1975 Roland SH-3A Vintage Synthesizer "mellow & creamy"

XPJV

Roland SH-3A with cv/gate

Gregory Cox

Reviews

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PROS

Unique 70's SH sound at a more reasonable price
One oscillator with individual wave form switches for 5 octaves
Chorus effect for the 8' wave adds thickness
Two LFOs for flexible modulation
Sampler section for complex sound design
Can mix different pitches of Saw, Square, and Pulse waves
Preset envelopes for both filter and amp
Momentary "glide" button for semitone dips
Ideal for textural, drone, and wind-like sounds

CONS

Limited by a single oscillator
Chorus effect limited to only 8' wave
Some may find the interface and options quirky

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland SH-3A Synthesizer.

Comparisons

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The SH-3 is compared to the ARP Odyssey MKII 2810, suggesting similarities in sonic quality due to the Moog-like filter design.
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Setup and maintenance

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Owners recommend a power supply rebuild and replacing key bed bushings to improve reliability and performance.
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Sticky faders and switches are common due to grime buildup from years of inactivity; regular cleaning and adjustment are necessary for optimal performance.
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Use cases and applications

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It's noted that Xeno & Oaklander and artists like Kitaro, Human League, and Vangelis have utilized this synth, indicating its appeal in electronic and synth-heavy music genres.
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Mods and upgrades

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It’s advised not to connect the SH-3 to an input with phantom power to avoid potential damage.
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Features and functionality

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The SH-3's filter is likened to Moog's transistor ladder design, which is praised for its unique sonic character.
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Value and pricing

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The synth was purchased for $725 CAD at a flea market, but the owner considered listing it for $1600, reflecting its rarity and potential market value.
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One owner snagged this synth for just $50, indicating potential for significant value appreciation given its rarity and desirability.
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User experience

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Despite its weight of 33 lbs, owners often prefer personal pickup to avoid shipping damage, which shows the importance of handling care for this vintage synth.
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The SH-3A is a source of genuine joy for first-time VCO users, highlighting the emotional connection with its authentic analog sound.
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4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 8 Ratings

5 star

4 star

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1 star

mach4

1256

over 3 years ago

Unique, quirky mono-synth with a few surprises. Built into its own case.

Really wish I had not parted with this one. A clever little mono-synth with some quite out-there mod routings for some wild sounds. Despite "only" having a single oscillator, it's partially additive in that you can mix 5 different pitches (footages) of Saw, Square, and Pulse (fixed) waves. Chorus is available but only for 8' wave, so there is some mild thickening of the sound there. There are 2 LFOs that are variably routable, and the sample-and-hold setting can provide some funky, random sequences. There's a momentary "glide" button which curiously dips the note a semitone when you press it. So, it's quirky but a lot of fun.

Roles:

Keyboardist Composer

Genres:

Electronic Rock Orchestra

m_thirteen

340

about 6 years ago

Smells like the seventies

I swapped my second red SH-101 for this and a Yamaha CS-10. No regrets because this is a beast (and i have my first red SH-101).

I leave it locked up in its case because the smell when you open that case is beautiful! It smells like a 1970’s synth lab!

Roles:

Music Producer

Genres:

Electronic Rock Synthpop

jimmarchi1

41029

6 years ago about 6 years ago

the CS10 is pretty badass too, although I prefer the 15 if recall

max_mars

245

over 9 years ago

Unique sounding synth

The Roland Sh-3a was my 1st ever synth, purchased used in the early eighties. I typically use it for textural sounds, drone sounds, and for wind-like sounds.

Roles:

Guitarist Bassist Drummer

Genres:

Electronic Rock Blues