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$1501+

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Description

Unlock a world of sonic possibilities with the Roland V-Synth XT, a compact powerhouse synthesizer designed for both studio and live settings. Imagine a synthesis engine that combines Elastic Audio Synthesis, analog-synth modeling, and classic D-50 emulation all in one versatile unit. With its rich COSM effects and external audio processing capabilities, the V-Synth XT isn't just another synth—it's a creative hub for musicians seeking to redefine their sound.

This rack/tabletop synth is equipped with a touch-sensitive color display and eight universal edit knobs for intuitive navigation and sound manipulation. Whether you're crafting new sounds with the innovative Sound Shaper function or exploring the endless potential of its user sampling and live audio processing, the V-Synth XT delivers an experience that's both user-friendly and deeply expressive.

The V-Synth XT shines with its dual personality, functioning seamlessly as either a rack-mounted or tabletop unit. Its built-in VC-1 D-50 emulator and VC-2 Vocal Designer cards provide instant access to legendary sounds, making it a must-have for sound designers and performers alike. Dive into the realm of complex audio design with ease, thanks to its straightforward interface and comprehensive feature set.

Key Features:

  • Elastic Audio Synthesis, analog-synth modeling, and D-50 emulation
  • COSM effects and external audio processing capabilities
  • Touch-sensitive color display and eight universal edit knobs
  • Sound Shaper function for easy sound crafting
  • Built-in VC-1 D-50 and VC-2 Vocal Designer cards
  • Functions as a rack or tabletop unit
  • USB streaming-audio, MIDI, and file transfer for seamless computer connectivity

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model V-Synth XT Rack Mount Digital Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 2005 - 2009
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Rackmount Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, USB MIDI
Polyphony 24 Voices

FAQs

Is the Roland V-Synth XT polyphonic or monophonic?

The Roland V-Synth XT is polyphonic, offering 24 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex layering and rich sound textures.

What are the key features of the Roland V-Synth XT's sound engine?

The V-Synth XT features a next-generation sound engine with a V-Rhythm mode, multi-step modulator, and pre-installed VC-1 D-50 and VC-2 Vocal modeler cards, providing versatile sound design capabilities.

Can the Roland V-Synth XT be used as a standalone unit?

Yes, the Roland V-Synth XT is designed as a rack/tabletop synthesizer, making it suitable for standalone use in various studio setups.

Does the Roland V-Synth XT support USB audio and MIDI streaming?

Yes, the Roland V-Synth XT supports USB streaming of both audio and MIDI, facilitating easy integration with computer-based setups.

What type of MIDI connectivity does the Roland V-Synth XT offer?

The Roland V-Synth XT offers comprehensive MIDI connectivity, including MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, and USB MIDI for versatile integration with other gear.

DrSqu

DrSqu

Roland V-Synth XT - Working with a Touchscreen

Video thumbnail for Roland V-Synth XT - Working with a Touchscreen by DrSqu

Roland V-Synth XT - Working with a Touchscreen

DrSqu

DrSqu

Video thumbnail for ROLAND V-SYNTH XT - (REVIEW) - TEST SOUNDS - FACTORY PRESETS by Tiago Mallen by Tiago Mallen

ROLAND V-SYNTH XT - (REVIEW) - TEST SOUNDS - FACTORY PRESETS by Tiago Mallen

Tiago Mallen

Tiago Mallen

Video thumbnail for Comparing family!?! V-Synth, XT and GT by The MIDI Maniac (Roger)

Comparing family!?! V-Synth, XT and GT

The MIDI Maniac (Roger)

The MIDI Maniac (Roger)

Video thumbnail for Roland V-Synth XT Demo by Michael Sagov

Roland V-Synth XT Demo

Michael Sagov

Michael Sagov

Reviews

PROS

  • Unique abilities in sample manipulation

  • Extensive synth engine with countless LFOs and envelopes

  • 4 track mod sequencer with flexible step lengths

  • Quality filters and effects for creative audio processing

  • Can use own samples enhancing versatility

  • Includes a great vocoder and sampler

  • Features a D-50 synthesizer mode

  • Touch screen interface enhances usability

  • Exceptional layering capabilities for sound design

CONS

  • Sound can feel dated compared to newer models

  • Filters may sound too digital for some preferences

  • Lack of ongoing support and upgrades from Roland

  • High cost not justified by features for some users

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The V-Synth XT includes a D-50 emulation, appealing to those who love the classic D-50 sounds but want a more reliable modern option.

    Source
  • The elastic synth engine is praised for its unique sound capabilities, adding a modern twist to the classic Roland sound.

    Source
  • The V-Synth XT allows running sounds through five effects simultaneously, with modulation options via mod wheel, D-Beam, and X-Y pad.

    Source
  • The Variphrase sampling engine provides a unique sound, making the V-Synth XT a powerful tool for sound design.

    Source
  • The V-Synth can load PCM samples from the D-50, allowing for approximation of many original patches, despite having only two oscillators.

    Source

Build quality

  • Some users report a jiggly and skippy main encoder knob, which could affect the programming experience.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners mention that the touchscreen can become unresponsive in hot and humid environments, potentially limiting its use in certain climates.

    Source
  • Some users find the onboard 15MB memory limiting, but a 1GB+ memory card can be added for more storage.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Buying at a good price (e.g., $600) allows for potential resale without financial loss, possibly even yielding a profit.

    Source
  • Owners mention the V-Synth XT's build quality and keybed are excellent, making it worth the investment even at $1000.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The V-Synth XT is praised for its ability to produce thick, rich pads and a strong supersaw sound, ideal for ambient-trance music.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The V-Synth XT's supersaw sound is noted to be similar to the JP80x0, enhancing its appeal for trance music producers.

    Source
  • The VC-1 PC card for D-50 emulation is hard to find and costly, making the V-Synth XT with built-in emulations a better option for some users.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • While the 303/Jupiter 8 card can be easily downloaded and imaged, the D-50 card lacks such availability, complicating efforts to utilize it on other devices.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Roland V-Synth XT: Part 1

soundonsound.com

The Roland V-Synth XT showcases Roland's Variphrase technology in a sleek, versatile rackmount format, delivering a powerful synthesis experience with extensive flexibility akin to classic synths like the Jupiter 8. Its touch-sensitive screen and robust build are standout features, although the absence of some tactile controls and limited polyphony might deter some purists. While the sample memory isn't expandable, its ability to handle user samples and innovative sound design capabilities are commendable. Despite some clunky storage functions, the XT excels as a sound designer's tool, offering a rich palette of modern and classic timbres.

positive

Roland V-Synth XT: Part 2 VC1 & VC2 Cards

soundonsound.com

The Roland V-Synth XT is a versatile powerhouse, offering a remarkable range of sounds and functionality thanks to its VC1 and VC2 cards. The VC1 card impressively emulates the classic D50 with near-perfect accuracy, while the VC2 card excels in vocal synthesis and vocoding, delivering high-quality and innovative choral sounds. However, the V-Synth XT is not without its quirks; the editing process can be cumbersome due to its lack of numeric keypad recognition, and the waveform-loading system is needlessly complex. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a compelling choice for serious sound designers, offering a rich palette of unique sonic possibilities.

positive

Roland V-Synth XT review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Roland V-Synth XT is a compact powerhouse that impresses with its touch-sensitive programming and versatile sound capabilities. With intuitive controls like the Time Trip Pad and Matrix Control Pad, it's a joy to use and encourages creative exploration. The sound is robust, offering both warmth and edginess, making it suitable for various musical styles. However, it does have its limitations, including a 24-voice polyphony and occasional crash issues. Despite the hefty price, its sampling, processing, and vocoding features make it a compelling choice for performance-focused musicians. Overall, it's a strong contender for those seeking a unique and powerful synth experience.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 14 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
morten_vammen

Deep - and still relatively unexplored

Great vocoder and sampler - and a d50 - forget the tacky presets...

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Armin Van Buuren uses Roland V-Synth XT

Armin Van Buuren

Music Producer

Major League

...
Verified via Soundonsound

He says, " "I was a little bit in doubt about whether I should give you pictures of my new studio, because people will think 'He's got a V?Synth! He's got... He's got... I need to buy that!' No, you don't need to buy it. "

See how Squarepusher uses Roland V-Synth XT

Squarepusher

Bassist, Music Producer

Squarepusher & AFX

...
Verified via Photo

In a "Future Music" magazine interview, a photograph shows Squarepusher using the Roland V-Synth XT, positioned centrally at the lower section of the image.

See how Ferry Corsten uses Roland V-Synth XT

Ferry Corsten

Music Producer, DJ

S.O.A.

...
Verified via Photo

This item can be seen in this Instagram picture, uploaded by Ferry Corsten himself.

See how Infected Mushroom uses Roland V-Synth XT

Infected Mushroom

Music Producer

Infected Mushroom

...
Verified via Photo

In this article for audio fanzine, Infected Mushroom provide this in a list of their gear.

See how Cory Henry uses Roland V-Synth XT

Cory Henry

Singer, Keyboardist

Snarky Puppy

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video you may see Cory using a rack mounted V-Synth XT, most probabily as a vocoder

See how Vitalic uses Roland V-Synth XT

Vitalic

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

"I use it a lot because it's able to do many things, from bass/pads/leads... I use a lot the vocal designer in my disco tracks because I can tell my voice into a "Donna Summer" style."

See how Ethan Kath uses Roland V-Synth XT

Ethan Kath

Music Producer

Crystal Castles

...
Verified via Photo

Ethan Kath is seen using a Roland V-Synth XT, as shown in a user-uploaded photo on Flickr.

See how Ulrich Schnauss uses Roland V-Synth XT

Ulrich Schnauss

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Tangerine Dream

...
Verified via YouTube

A Roland V-Synth XT can be seen behind Ulrich's head, next to his computer monitor at 1:53 in this video with Future Music Magazine.

See how Richard Barbieri uses Roland V-Synth XT

Richard Barbieri

Keyboardist

Porcupine Tree

...
Verified via Richardbarbieri

Featured in the Gear List on Richard Barbieri's website.

See how Chris Carter uses Roland V-Synth XT

Chris Carter

Keyboardist

Throbbing Gristle

...
Verified via YouTube

Chris' V-Synth XT can be seen at 0:31.

See how DJ Scott Brown uses Roland V-Synth XT

DJ Scott Brown

DJ

Neophyte vs. Scott Brown

...
Verified via YouTube

A Roland V-Synth XT can be seen on Scott's desk, in this video, at 7:50.

See how Phelios uses Roland V-Synth XT

Phelios

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

AMBIENT SESSION with Martin Stürtzer / Phelios. Recorded live without overdubs / sequencing. SYNTHS: Moog Little Phatty, Virus TI, V-Synth XT (via DX7) FX: Uad Apollo with Lexicon 224 & EP34 Tape Echo, Moog MF-102 Ringmodulator and a box of matches.

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 V-Synth XT, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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