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Average Price: $294

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Description

The Roland SonicCell is the quintessential tabletop synthesizer for musicians seeking top-tier sound quality and unparalleled versatility. This compact powerhouse integrates the legendary Roland sound engine right onto your desktop, making it an ideal choice for both studio recording and live performances. With a dual SRX expansion bay, the SonicCell allows you to expand and customize its sound bank, drawing from an extensive library of acoustic instruments and percussive sounds, tailored for the ultimate expression and realism.

More than just a sound module, the SonicCell doubles as a robust USB audio interface. This feature eliminates the need for additional hardware, allowing seamless integration with your computer for effortless recording and music creation. Simply connect your instruments directly to the SonicCell and experience efficient and stable performance that lightens the load on your computer's processor. Included with your purchase is Cakewalk’s SONAR LE software, offering user-friendly sound design and effects programming to bring your musical ideas to life.

As a virtual backing band, the SonicCell takes convenience to another level. Create and manage playlists of your tracks, and with a USB memory stick, transform the SonicCell into an autonomous song player for your live gigs. It reliably plays back WAV, AIFF, MP3, and even Standard MIDI Files, offering you a flexible solution for any musical setting.

Key Features:

  • 128-voice sound module with an extensive, realistic soundset
  • Built-in USB audio interface and USB-memory host function
  • Dual SRX expansion bays for sound bank customization
  • SMF and audio data playback via USB host function
  • Includes PC/Mac Editor and Cakewalk SONAR LE software

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model Sonic Cell Synthesizer Module
Finish Black
Year 2007 - 2009
Categories Desktop Synths, Digital Synthesizers
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Polyphony 128 Voices

FAQs

What type of connectivity does the Roland SonicCell offer?

The Roland SonicCell features MIDI Input and Output, as well as USB MIDI connectivity, allowing for integration with both hardware and computer-based setups.

Can the Roland SonicCell be used as a USB audio interface?

Yes, the Roland SonicCell functions as a USB audio interface, enabling you to record and play back audio through your computer.

How many voices of polyphony does the Roland SonicCell support?

The Roland SonicCell supports 128 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex and layered sound performances.

What expansion options are available for the Roland SonicCell?

The Roland SonicCell includes two SRX expansion slots, which allow you to add additional sounds and enhance its sonic capabilities.

Is the Roland SonicCell compatible with DAW software?

Yes, the Roland SonicCell comes with VSTi/AU Editor software for PC/Mac and includes Cakewalk SONAR LE for seamless integration with digital audio workstations.

John Rosenfeld

John Rosenfeld

AX edge with Roland Sonic Cell

Video thumbnail for AX edge with Roland Sonic Cell by John Rosenfeld

AX edge with Roland Sonic Cell

John Rosenfeld

John Rosenfeld

Video thumbnail for ROLAND SONIC CELL | AUDIO USB SYNTH MODULE by Synth Cloud

ROLAND SONIC CELL | AUDIO USB SYNTH MODULE

Synth Cloud

Synth Cloud

Video thumbnail for Roland SonicCell Synth Module Overview by RolandChannel

Roland SonicCell Synth Module Overview

RolandChannel

RolandChannel

Video thumbnail for Roland Sonic Cell - practice using presentation by ElectronicMusicGear

Roland Sonic Cell - practice using presentation

ElectronicMusicGear

ElectronicMusicGear

Video thumbnail for Roland SonicCell: An Expandable Synth Module Viewed Over by gearwire

Roland SonicCell: An Expandable Synth Module Viewed Over

gearwire

gearwire

Video thumbnail for Roland Sonic Cell module by Ben Correll

Roland Sonic Cell module

Ben Correll

Ben Correll

Video thumbnail for The under-rated, often overlooked, Roland SonicCell sound module! by Jeffy G

The under-rated, often overlooked, Roland SonicCell sound module!

Jeffy G

Jeffy G

Video thumbnail for LIVE ROLAND SONIC CELL - COM TIAGO MALLEN - (MODULO COM TIMBRES DA SERIE FANTOM) #live #livestream by Tiago Mallen

LIVE ROLAND SONIC CELL - COM TIAGO MALLEN - (MODULO COM TIMBRES DA SERIE FANTOM) #live #livestream

Tiago Mallen

Tiago Mallen

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Comparisons

  • The SonicCell is likened to a trimmed-down version of the Fantom X, offering improved samples over older JV/XV drums.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • SonicCell does not handle MIDI CC4 for hi-hat control, limiting its drum articulation capabilities compared to dedicated drum modules like the TD-17.

    Source
  • The SonicCell has a "USB-MIDI Thru" option in the system menu that may resolve MIDI input issues when configured correctly.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The SonicCell requires modified drivers to operate over USB on Windows 10/11, unlike the SD-50 which works out-of-the-box.

    Source
  • Roland's lack of class-compliant USB support means the SonicCell typically doesn't work with modern operating systems without older drivers.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners find the SonicCell buggy, with issues like frequent lock-ups and difficulty saving custom patches.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The SonicCell is ideal for musicians who want a variety of sounds without using a laptop, with a focus on versatility over specialization.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Proper MIDI configuration is crucial; issues may arise if the SonicCell is not directly connected to a MIDI hub or sequencer.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Roland Sonic Cell review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Roland SonicCell is a versatile audio interface and synth module that offers classic Roland sounds and multiple functionalities. Ideal for beginners in computer-based music production, its solid build and comprehensive soundset provide a good foundation. However, its dated design and limited connectivity could deter more advanced users. While the sound quality is undeniably Roland, the lack of integration with modern DAW systems might be a drawback for some. Overall, the SonicCell is a reliable choice for those starting out, but it doesn't push the boundaries of innovation for seasoned producers.

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Artist usage

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See how Billy Sheehan uses Roland SonicCell

Billy Sheehan

Guitarist, Bassist

UFO

...
Verified via YouTube

At 3:15, in this Premier Guitar rig rundown, Billy Sheehan mentions the Roland SonicCell that he uses during live performances.

Genre Usage

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Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland SonicCell, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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