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$1501+

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Description

Introducing the Roland XV-88 Synthesizer, a powerhouse in the world of digital music creation. This 88-key synthesizer is a must-have for musicians seeking both versatility and depth in their sound design. With its impressive array of features, the XV-88 provides an immersive experience for both studio and live performances. The XV-5080 sound engine is at the heart of this instrument, delivering a broad spectrum of sounds that range from lush acoustic simulations to complex electronic textures.

The synth's user interface is designed for intuitive operation, allowing quick access to its comprehensive library of over 1,000 patches. Its velocity-sensitive keys provide dynamic control, making it a great choice for expressive playing. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned professionals, the Roland XV-88 offers a wide range of modulation options, including LFOs and envelopes, giving you the power to shape your sound with precision.

Whether you're crafting ambient soundscapes or high-energy dance tracks, the XV-88's multi-effects processor ensures each note resonates with clarity and depth. Connect seamlessly with other gear through its robust MIDI capabilities, making it a versatile addition to any setup.

Key Features:

  • 88 fully weighted, velocity-sensitive keys for expressive play
  • XV-5080 sound engine offering a wide range of sounds
  • Over 1,000 patches for diverse sound exploration
  • Multi-effects processor for enhanced sound quality
  • Comprehensive MIDI connectivity for seamless integration with other devices
  • Intuitive user interface for easy navigation and sound editing
  • Extensive modulation options including LFOs and envelopes

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model XV-88 128-Voice 88-Key Expandable Digital Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 2000 - 2003
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Workstation Keyboards
Analog / Digital Digital
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Weighted
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys 88 Keys
Polyphony 128 Voices

FAQs

What type of keyboard action does the Roland XV-88 Synthesizer have?

The Roland XV-88 features a weighted keyboard action, providing a realistic piano feel that is ideal for pianists and keyboardists seeking expressive control.

Is the Roland XV-88 Synthesizer polyphonic?

Yes, the Roland XV-88 is a polyphonic synthesizer with 128 voices, allowing for complex and layered soundscapes without note dropouts.

How does the Roland XV-88 Synthesizer connect to other MIDI devices?

The Roland XV-88 offers MIDI Input, Output, and Through connections, making it easy to integrate with other MIDI-enabled equipment in your setup.

Is the Roland XV-88 Synthesizer suitable for live performances?

With its 88 full-sized keys and robust sound engine, the Roland XV-88 is well-suited for live performances, offering versatile sounds and expressive playability.

Can the Roland XV-88 Synthesizer be expanded with additional sounds?

Yes, the Roland XV-88 is an expandable digital synthesizer, allowing you to add new sounds and patches to enhance its sonic capabilities.

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

Roland XV-88 Electronic Piano Synth

Video thumbnail for Roland XV-88 Electronic Piano Synth by Gearfacts

Roland XV-88 Electronic Piano Synth

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

Video thumbnail for Roland XV-88 synth: No talk, sounds only by Gearfacts

Roland XV-88 synth: No talk, sounds only

Gearfacts

Gearfacts

Video thumbnail for Roland XV-88 synthesizer demo by Dan Bennett

Roland XV-88 synthesizer demo

Dan Bennett

Dan Bennett

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Build quality

  • The XV-88 uses K62U keys, available from Syntaur, allowing for keybed repairs if needed.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners note that keys are brittle and may break easily, but epoxy repairs are effective.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The XV-88 supports both SRX and regular JV expansion cards, though SRX boards are difficult to find.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The XV-88 is recommended as a MIDI controller for its durable keybed, outperforming modern controllers in the $500-$800 range.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Owners compare its value to the Arturia Keylab 88 MkII, which lacks built-in sound and costs over $800 used.

    Source

Other

  • Be aware of the "Roland red glue problem," a potential issue with the XV-88 model.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Roland XV88

soundonsound.com

The Roland XV-88 Synthesizer excels with its superbly weighted keyboard and powerful XV3080 synth engine, making it a fantastic choice for those who prefer weighted keys. The SRX01 drum expansion is also a highlight, offering realistic and dynamic percussion samples. However, the XV-88's sluggish key return can hinder rapid play, and it lacks sufficient real-time controls for its price point. Additionally, the SRX02 piano expansion disappoints with abrupt velocity transitions and unnatural sample envelopes. While the XV-88 is a solid option for weighted keyboard enthusiasts, potential buyers should be cautious about its limitations.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
I

Heavy but excellent

It's an XV-3080 with weighted keyboard, and two JV and SRX card slots. It has performance controls acting on filter cutoff, resonance, attack, release and D-Beam controller. The channel aftertouch does its job, even it does require some heavy action. Big buttons to avoid mistakes during live show.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Rick Wakeman uses Roland XV-88 Synthesizer

Rick Wakeman

Keyboardist

Black Sabbath

...
Verified via Archive

Rick Wakeman writes on his homepage about his equipment. In the category keyboards is the Roland XV-88 Synthesizer. It was listed on Reverb.com in June 2020, which dates it to 1990.

Used with YES

See how Paul 'Wix' Wickens uses Roland XV-88 Synthesizer

Paul 'Wix' Wickens

Singer, Keyboardist

Paul McCartney (Live Band)

...
Verified via Photo

Wickens at the the Fred Walecki Benefit Concert on August 8, 2000.

See how Martijn Westerholt uses Roland XV-88 Synthesizer

Martijn Westerholt

Keyboardist, Composer

Within Temptation

...
Verified via Photo

Martijn Westerholt is documented using the Roland XV-88 Synthesizer, as evidenced by a photograph.

See how Coen Janssen uses Roland XV-88 Synthesizer

Coen Janssen

Keyboardist

Epica

...
Verified via Photo

In this image Coen Janssen can be seen playing his Roland XV-88 at Hellfest Summer Open Air 2007.

See how Fredrik Hermansson uses Roland XV-88 Synthesizer

Fredrik Hermansson

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Pain of Salvation

...
Verified via YouTube

As seen in Pain of Salvation's "Ending Theme" music video at 0:08s in, bottom keyboard.

See how Jimmy Nichols uses Roland XV-88 Synthesizer

Jimmy Nichols

Singer, Keyboardist

Sound City Players

...
Verified via Jimmy Nichols Live

The article talks about all the gear Jimmy uses, it states he uses a Roland XV88 under "Keyboards".

Album Usage

The Roland XV-88 Synthesizer has been featured on the following albums:

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 XV-88 Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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coldplay915

coldplay915

Gear IQ 184

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