This week’s launch Thursday goes to the Roland SH-4D Desktop Synthesizer (AKA a “module”). I don’t know which is worse: the over-the-top marketing-speak, the seizure inducing media, or endless scrolling through pop-up site graphics. Save some eyestrain and go right to the Soundcloud demos.

We report the facts without glitz:

• 11 oscillator models: SH-4D, SH-3D, SYNC, SH-101, JUNO-106, Cross FM, RING, WAVETABLE, CHORD, DRAWING PCM, Rhythm
• 60 voice polyphony
• 5 parts (4 tone, 1 rhythm)
• Modulation matrix
• Effects: Reverb, Chorus, MFX, Delay, Master, Master EQ
• Rhythm part: 49 preset kits plus 64 user slots
• Arpeggiator
• Sequencer (5 parts, 64 steps, motion recording)
• Pattern plus mixing mode (level, pan, chorus, reverb, delay)
• LCD display 128 x 64 pixels
• USB-C, 5-pin MIDI IN/OUT, clock IN, audio IN
• 12 channel USB audio
• USB (500mA) or battery power (4 AA LR6 or HR6)
• Battery life: Approximately 4 hours
• 14.2″ x 7.7″ x 2.6″ (360mm x 195mm x 66mm)
• 3.9 pounds (1.78kg)

All of this for a fairly reasonable asking price of $650 USD (available March 2023). If you skipped the Boutique series so far, the price and models make the SH-4D irresistible.

The front panel and its controls are small — designed for elfin hands. That would make real-time performance a little tricky. Listening to the demos, I like the sound of this thing.

“Future Retro” in 1960s OCR font? Pu-leaze! I’m sure Roland will be featuring the SH-4D at NAMM, 13-15 April 2023.

Copyright © 2023 Paul J. Drongowski