Roland SH101 White

$1,099.99 Price Tier: Standard

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1 Critic Review

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Page last updated Jun 23, 2026

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We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 23, 2026.

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5.0 (14)

$1,099.99 29 available Used

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Average Price: $1,100

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$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Roland SH101 White 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 the world of vintage sound with the Roland SH101, a classic analog monophonic synthesizer that has carved its niche in the realms of techno and acid house music. First introduced in 1982, this synthesizer is celebrated for its straightforward design and powerful sound capabilities. The SH101 features a single oscillator with mixable waveforms, providing a versatile sound palette that has captivated musicians for decades. With its 100-step sequencer and arpeggiator, you can effortlessly create intricate patterns and rhythms that have defined electronic music genres.

The Roland SH101 is not just an instrument but a piece of music history, having been used by legendary artists like Aphex Twin and The Prodigy. Its design allows for both studio and live performances, with an optional hand grip controller that transforms it into a keytar for dynamic stage presence. Perfect for both seasoned synth enthusiasts and newcomers, the SH101’s intuitive layout makes it easy to navigate and unleash your creativity.

Ideal for those who crave authentic analog warmth and iconic sound, the Roland SH101 continues to inspire musicians worldwide. Whether you are composing your next track or performing live, this synthesizer remains a timeless tool for sonic exploration.

Key Features:

Analog monophonic bass synthesizer
Single oscillator with mixable waveforms
100-step sequencer
Built-in arpeggiator
CV/Gate control
Optional hand grip for keytar performance
Used by artists like Aphex Twin and The Prodigy

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

Is the Roland SH-101 White suitable for beginners?: Yes, the Roland SH-101 White is suitable for beginners due to its straightforward interface and controls, which make it easy to learn and create classic analog sounds.
What type of synthesis does the Roland SH-101 White use?: The Roland SH-101 White is an analog synthesizer, known for its rich and warm tones, making it ideal for bass lines and leads in electronic music.
How many keys does the Roland SH-101 White have?: The Roland SH-101 White features a 32-key full-size keyboard with synth action, allowing for expressive performance and playability.
Is the Roland SH-101 White monophonic or polyphonic?: The Roland SH-101 White is a monophonic synthesizer, which means it can play one note at a time, perfect for creating strong, focused bass lines and solos.
Can the Roland SH-101 White be battery-powered?: Yes, the Roland SH-101 White can be powered by batteries, making it portable and convenient for live performances or mobile setups.

Videos

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Doctor Mix

The Roland SH101 In Action

Doctor Mix

Making a song using only the Roland SH-101 synth

once upon a synth

ROLAND SH-101 TUTORIAL AND OVERVIEW

once upon a synth

How to use a Roland SH101 Analog Synth complete guided tour

TONELAB

my Roland SH-101 analog synth demo 1

earlofeastjurong

World's Greatest Mono Synth: Roland SH-101

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Roland SH-101: Is It Worth It?

Alamo Music Sound Lab

Reviews

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PROS

Punchy bass and unique filter growl for rich sound
Fun and intuitive sequencer with random note looping
Excellent first-synth due to its forgiving nature
Highly regarded for jamming and producing
Irresistible aesthetic appeal
Easy to integrate into a mix with consistent sound quality
Sub oscillator enhances sound depth
Great compatibility with devices like TR-606 and DR-55

CONS

Power switch issues lead to VCO tuning fluctuations
Loses sequencer memory when turned off
High price compared to similar models like SH9
Basic features with single osc, LFO, and EG
Limited functionality compared to other vintage SH models

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland SH101 White.

Features and functionality

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The SH-101's sequencer is praised for its simplicity and ability to create polyrhythmic patterns using an EXT CLK input.
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Mods and upgrades

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The Tubbutec mod is recommended for adding MIDI and features like accent, enhancing the synth's versatility.
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User experience

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Owners find the SH-101's Curtis VCO and IR3109 filter combination delivers consistently usable, creamy sounds, akin to a monophonic Juno.
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Owners report satisfaction from DIY repairs, gaining skills and confidence through self-maintenance of their SH-101.
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Use cases and applications

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Its portability allows for outdoor use with battery power, making it ideal for mobile performances or busking.
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Build quality

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Some owners mention concerns about slider/pot wear and discolored plastics, which can affect appearance and operation over time.
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Some replacement sliders have thinner metal levers, requiring modifications like adding paper to fit securely.
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Comparisons

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The SH-101 is noted for its unique liquid filter and acid sound, distinct from other Roland models like the SH-2 and SH-09.
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Setup and maintenance

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The resonance slider may need replacement due to scratchiness; a quick soldering job with new sliders costing around £12 is recommended.
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Contact cleaner and relubing can address slider issues, improving functionality without professional help.
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Value and pricing

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Professional repair quotes can reach $120, suggesting DIY as a cost-effective alternative if confident in soldering.
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Critic Reviews

Roland SH101 [Retrozone]

soundonsound.com

The Roland SH101, lauded for its affordability and simplicity, remains a favorite for its rich, resonant filter and robust sub-oscillator, making it ideal for rave and dance music. Its intuitive controls and stability in tuning are commendable, offering unique sounds that are hard to replicate elsewhere. However, its limitations include a single oscillator and lack of comprehensive modulation options, which might be a drawback for those seeking more complex sound design. Overall, the SH101 is a classic with undeniable character and is considered indispensable by enthusiasts.

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