Roland VG-88

$228.43 Price Tier: Standard

5.0 (2)

1 Critic Review

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Page last updated Jun 10, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 10, 2026.

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4.0 (7)

$228.43 13 available Used

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Average Price: $228

Standard/Professional

$150

$601+

Price Tier

In the Multi Effects Pedals category, Roland VG-88 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 a world of sonic exploration with the Roland VG-88, a multi-effects pedal that redefines the boundaries of guitar sound. Crafted for the musician who refuses to be boxed in by tradition, this pedal is your gateway to an infinite soundscape. With 200 presets and the cutting-edge COSM modeling technology, the VG-88 offers unparalleled versatility, allowing you to shift seamlessly from the gritty blues of a smoke-filled bar to the expansive reverberations of an arena rock concert. Whether you're a studio musician looking to add depth to your recordings or a live performer aiming to captivate your audience with polyphonic pitch shifting, the VG-88 is your companion in crafting your unique sonic signature.

Key Features:

200 presets for instant access to a wide array of tones
COSM modeling technology for accurate emulation of classic and modern amplifiers
Polyphonic pitch shifting for harmonious layering and intricate solos
Ideal for both studio recordings and live performances

Product specs

Brand	Roland
Model	VG-88
Finish	Black
Year	2000
Made In	Japan
Categories	Guitar Synths

FAQs

What types of guitar sounds can the Roland VG-88 emulate?: The Roland VG-88 can emulate a wide range of guitar sounds, including popular guitar, amp, mic, pickup, and cab models. It also features models for hollow-body and acoustic guitars, as well as synth and brass sounds.
Can the Roland VG-88 be used to create custom effects presets?: Yes, the Roland VG-88 allows you to create and save up to 100 user presets in addition to its 160 factory presets, giving you ample space to customize and store your unique sound settings.
Does the Roland VG-88 include built-in effects?: The Roland VG-88 includes a variety of built-in effects such as reverb, chorus, hexa-pan, delay, flanger, and parametric EQ, all of which can be used simultaneously.
Is the Roland VG-88 suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Roland VG-88 is suitable for live performances, offering real-time control with its onboard expression pedal and the ability to switch between multiple presets quickly.
How does the Roland VG-88 handle alternate tunings?: The Roland VG-88 features a polyphonic intelligent pitch shifter that allows for instant open tunings and 12-string guitar emulations, making it versatile for various musical styles and setups.

Videos

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magermunson

Roland VG-88 and GR-33 Demo

magermunson

Roland-Ready Parker PM-10 Hornet w/ Roland VG-88 Acoustic and Electric Tones

WayneJoness

Roland vg 88 test

David Dody Gabriel

Reviews

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PROS

Analog synthesizer capabilities provide unique sound textures
No lag or loss of expression unlike MIDI controllers
Superb sound quality with 24-bit resolution
Highly versatile with realistic guitar and amp models
Extensive range of effects with customizable order
COSM technology simplifies setting up guitar, amp, and effects patches
Allows for precise, customized sound tweaking
Enables creation of sound combinations otherwise impossible solo

CONS

Limited sound palette compared to MIDI
Factory presets often overuse reverb and chorus
Some COSM models/sounds perceived as cheesy
Certain sounds/patches can be tinny and unpleasant
Requires considerable time to tweak and improve patches

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland VG-88.

Features and functionality

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The VG-88 offers a "Bowed" patch, which can be adjusted for polyphonic tuning by switching the Ac. Piezo patch to BOWED COSM.
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VG-88 allows individual string tuning changes, debunking the misconception that it lacks polyphonic tuning capabilities.
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The VG-88 V.2 software upgrade potentially adds pitch shifting to patches not available on V.1, enhancing tuning flexibility for certain presets.
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Comparisons

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Users debate the latency differences, with some claiming the VG-88 has better latency compared to the VG-8.
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The VG-88's "bowed" sample algorithm differs significantly from the VG-8, requiring users to rebuild patches using COSM e-guitar and modulation for replication.
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Use cases and applications

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The VG-88 can replicate certain VG-8 sounds, such as "VeryEFX!" by editing HARMO12 parameters, though "Stay Pad" sound replication remains a challenge.
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Setup and maintenance

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Using a 7-string flatwound set with 13-gauge strings can effectively achieve desired tunings when paired with the VG-88.
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Software and compatibility

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To achieve alternate tunings, users can individually adjust the pitch of each string through the effects menu in the VG-88 V.2.
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User experience

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Some users find the VG-88 manual vague, leading to frustration when attempting to utilize specific pitch-shifting features.
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Critic Reviews

Roland VG88

soundonsound.com

The Roland VG-88 impresses with its innovative digital modeling capabilities, offering a rich palette of electric and acoustic guitar tones, along with synth-like sounds. Its standout feature is the ability to craft virtual guitars, setting it apart in a competitive market. While editing is straightforward, the lack of dedicated knobs and pitch-to-MIDI conversion are drawbacks. Despite these limitations, the VG-88 shines as a tool for experimental musicians, delivering high-quality sound both live and in the studio. Perfect for those seeking more than conventional guitar sounds, it's a compelling choice for creative guitarists.

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