Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Average Price: $2,200
High-end/Boutique
$149
$350+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Roland System 500". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
Unlock a universe of creativity with the Roland System 500, a modular synthesizer that artfully bridges the gap between classic analog warmth and modern modular versatility. Perfect for both seasoned synth enthusiasts and newcomers to the modular world, this system offers a faithful recreation of Roland's legendary 1970s SYSTEM-700 and SYSTEM-100M. Each module is built to the highest standards of craftsmanship and precision, ensuring your sound is as authentic and dynamic as the originals that shaped the sound of countless hit records.
Designed to seamlessly integrate into any modular setup, the Roland System 500 provides you with the tools to craft intricate soundscapes, bold basslines, and shimmering leads. Its Eurorack format ensures compatibility with a wide range of other modular gear, allowing you to expand your sonic palette with limitless possibilities. Whether you're experimenting in the studio or performing live, the System 500's user-friendly interface and robust build make it a reliable companion in your musical journey.
Key Features:
- Complete set of analog modules inspired by Roland's classic SYSTEM-700 and SYSTEM-100M
- Eurorack format for compatibility with other modular gear
- High-quality construction with precision engineering
- Extensive sound-shaping capabilities for dynamic performances
- Ideal for both studio experimentation and live performances
Product specs
| Brand | Roland |
| Model | System-500 Eurorack Synthesizer Complete Set |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2016 - 2025 |
| Made In | Japan |
| Categories | Complete Modular Synth Systems, Eurorack Modules and Cases |
| Horizontal Pitch | 80HP |
| Modular Synth Format | Eurorack |
FAQs
-
What modules are included in the Roland System 500 complete set?
-
The Roland System 500 includes the 512 oscillator module, 521 filter module, 530 amplifier module, 540 envelope module, and 572 phase shifter module, offering a comprehensive analog modular synthesizer setup.
-
Is the Roland System 500 suitable for beginners in modular synthesis?
-
Yes, the Roland System 500 is a great starting point for beginners, as it comes complete with essential modules, a case, power supply, and patch cables, making it easy to dive into modular synthesis.
-
What type of case does the Roland System 500 come with?
-
The Roland System 500 includes a versatile wood and metal case that is portable, stackable, and can be positioned flat or angled, providing flexibility in setup and transport.
-
Does the Roland System 500 offer vintage Roland analog sound?
-
Yes, the Roland System 500 delivers vintage Roland analog sound with its high-quality modern instrument design, featuring multiple oscillators, filters, and effects.
-
What waveforms are available in the Roland System 500's oscillators?
-
The 512 module in the Roland System 500 provides two voltage-controlled oscillators with saw, sine, and square waveforms, allowing for diverse sound creation.
Videos
Alex Ball
Roland System 500 versus vintage System 100m and SH-5 Synthesizers
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland System 500.
User experience
Software and compatibility
-
Aira effects app is no longer supported on newer Mac updates, and some users find it tricky to use.
Source
Features and functionality
-
Aira modules, including Scooper and Demora, are noted for their innovative DSP capabilities but criticized for their large 21hp size in racks.
Source -
The 572's delayed gate feature is highlighted as surprisingly useful despite other disappointments with the module.
Source -
To achieve polyphony with the System 500, multiple duplicates of VCO, VCA, VCF, and envelope modules are required for each voice.
Source
Use cases and applications
-
System 500 is recommended as a solid first step into modular synthesis, particularly for those building a system gradually.
Source -
Some recommend standalone synths like Moog Mavis for basic monophonic needs in limited rack space.
Source -
A Keystep Pro is effective for controlling a polyphonic setup, providing a practical solution for those with multi-voice modular systems.
Source -
Combining the System 500 with a hybrid modular setup allows for experimentation with rack configuration without significant financial commitment.
Source
Comparisons
-
Behringer modules of the 100 series are suggested as inexpensive alternatives, although Roland's system offers more sophisticated modulations.
Source -
System80 810 considered an alternative with VCO, VCA, and VCF; requires an envelope module for complete functionality.
Source -
The Roland 510 module is a simplified modular voice option, offering a cheaper entry point compared to a full System 500 setup.
Source -
Behringer offers affordable clones of the System 500 modules, though preferences lean towards building modular systems with multiple VCO and VCF modules rather than full voice modules.
Source
Build quality
-
Aira effects require a specific wall wart power supply, which some users find inconvenient.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
"Using a new Roland System 8 with a System 500 attached and a Grp A4, Jarre also had his Moog Sub37, AKS, Buchla and ARP2600 at his disposal"
In an interview with Channel 4 News on July 1, 2017, Orbital is seen with a Roland System 500 modular synthesizer positioned behind their VCS3, indicating its presence in their setup.
"Roland System 100M vs. System 500. It's party time //_)"
Klayton shows us his jam session setup with the Roland System 500 and the Roland System 100 M
In the article, Geir Jenssen is quoted as saying: "My two favorite instruments in the ’90s were the samplers from Akai: S950 followed by S3000. I could use these almost blindly. The lowpass filter on the S950 is so unique that I acquired another S950 on the used market this week. The filters are the most important part of all the instruments for me. I have read a lot about filters lately and found out that Roland SH-5, an analog synth from 1975, should have the best lowpass filter ever. So when this came up for sale on the second-hand market here in Norway recently, I just had to purchase it. Roland has also recreated the SH-5 filter in the Eurorack module SYS-505. That’s why I’ve also invested in Roland’s System 500 Complete Set, a Eurorack version of System 100M from the ’70s. So even though I do not fully master these instruments yet, the SH-5 and System 500 are my favorite instruments at the moment. Otherwise, I just have to say that I can not work with many of the new instruments that have a lot of LEDs. It looks ugly and destroys concentration. System 500 and SH-5 are perfect in that respect and remind me of my old Sony shortwave radio from the ’70s."
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland System 500, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursSimilar
Add recommendation1 alternative for Roland System 500, curated by the Equipboard community.
$666.00 - $899.99