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Average Price: $3,952
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$1501+
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Description
Discover the Roland SH-5, a vintage analog synthesizer that has captivated musicians and sound designers since its introduction in the late 1970s. Renowned for its robust build and distinctive sound, the SH-5 offers a unique synthesis experience, blending subtractive synthesis with modulation capabilities that set it apart from its contemporaries. This monophonic synthesizer is a treasure trove for those seeking rich soundscapes and an intuitive interface.
The SH-5 features a dual oscillator design, providing a wide range of sound possibilities from deep basses to soaring leads. Its standout feature is the multimode filter, which offers a variety of filter types for intricate sound shaping. The synthesizer also boasts a ring modulator and a noise generator, adding further depth and texture to your creations. With its flexible modulation routing, the SH-5 allows users to experiment with complex modulations, making it a favorite among electronic musicians who seek to push sonic boundaries.
Whether you're looking to recreate classic tones or invent entirely new ones, the Roland SH-5's powerful architecture and hands-on control make it a versatile tool for any studio setup. Its analog warmth and character remain highly sought after, making it both a collector’s item and a functional powerhouse for sound exploration.
Key Features:
- Dual oscillator design for a wide range of sound possibilities
- Multimode filter with various filter types
- Ring modulator and noise generator for enhanced sound textures
- Flexible modulation routing for complex sound design
- Intuitive interface for hands-on control and experimentation
Product specs
| Brand | Roland |
| Model | SH-5 44-Key Synthesizer |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1975 - 1978 |
| Categories | Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths |
| Analog / Digital | Analog |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| Number of Keys | 44 Keys |
| Polyphony | 5-voice |
FAQs
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Is the Roland SH-5 a monophonic or polyphonic synthesizer?
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The Roland SH-5 is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can play one note at a time, which is ideal for bass lines and lead sounds.
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What are the standout features of the Roland SH-5's sound engine?
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The Roland SH-5 is renowned for its versatile sound engine, featuring dual oscillators, a multimode filter, and extensive modulation options, allowing for rich and complex sound design.
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How does the Roland SH-5 compare to modern synthesizers in terms of sound quality?
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The Roland SH-5 is celebrated for its warm, vintage analog sound, which many musicians find more organic and characterful compared to some modern digital synths.
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What type of music is the Roland SH-5 best suited for?
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The Roland SH-5 is particularly popular in electronic, dance, and experimental music due to its flexible modulation capabilities and rich analog sound.
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Does the Roland SH-5 have any built-in effects?
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The Roland SH-5 does not include built-in effects, focusing instead on its powerful oscillators and filters for sound shaping.
Videos
Telekom Electronic Beats TV
Mathew Jonson Presents His Synthesizer Favourites: Roland SH-5 (Electronic Beats TV)
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland SH-5.
Setup and maintenance
Features and functionality
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The SH-5 includes a filter CV input, offering unique sequencing possibilities alongside standard controls.
Source
Comparisons
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Many users prefer the SH-5’s sound over the Minimoog, citing its clear, powerful waveforms and imposing presence.
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Value and pricing
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SH-5 prices are often high due to rarity, but negotiating in person for units with cosmetic damage can yield better deals.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
During a studio tour with Future Music Magazine, Steve Mac says [@ 01:25] about his Roland SH-5:
"The beast, SH-5. Another Roland synth. What we've been using this a lot for lately is bass. It's got two filter sections on it, and it's the Band Pass filter that really, really pushes it out in the mix. It's hard to explain what it does. It just gets this huge, huge bass sound."
On this interview with Jake Gosling on 2012 about producing Ed Sheeran's first album "+", the article mentions:
"On +, along with his production and co‑writing duties, Jake Gosling also served as the main keyboard player, utilising his array of vintage synths, which includes a Roland Jupiter 8, a Korg MS2000 and a Roland SH5."
Per this 2005 photograph from the Glade Festival, Joie can be seen playing a well-worn Roland SH-5. While this is only a shot of the rear of the unit, the case-shape is unique to the SH-5, neither Roland, nor any other synth manufacturer used that shape for another model.
Additionally, the story of Joie's SH-5 is recounted in this January, 1997 issue of Sound on Sound:
However, it turns out that Joie's Roland SH5, which he bought new way back in 1977, is the Eat Static equivalent of Ed's Pro Ones, as Merv explains: "We always turn to that — even if we don't use it in a track CV'd or sampled, it would be acting as an audio processor using its audio input. The band‑pass filter on it is like a mad filter and EQ going at the same time. We use it for gating a lot, rather like a noise gate shutting on and off with a rounded filter effect thrown in. I'm dreading the day it packs up for good; trying to find another one is going to cost us at least two grand by today's prices, I'd say — assuming we can find one."
Justin Moyle is associated with the Roland SH-5, a sophisticated monophonic synthesizer known for its versatility and rich features, including dual VCOs, LFOs, and filters. This synthesis powerhouse is favored for its capability to produce intricate electronic and dance music sounds. The connection to Moyle is illustrated by a Google image result showcasing the SH-5, highlighting its significance in his setup.
In this video, Canadian band Harmonium is performing "Viens Danser" during a 1977 concert in California. Keyboarder Serge Locat is playing a solo on the SH-5 starting at 5:20.
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland SH-5, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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