Roland Aira SYSTEM-8 Plug-Out Synthesizer

Utilising Roland’s advanced ACB technology, the System-8 is a revolutionary new hybrid synthesizer with a vast palette of sounds. Inspired by four decades of iconic Roland Synthesizers like the Jupiter, Juno, SH and V-Synth, combined with Roland’s modern JD-Xi and System 500 technology, the System-8 is a powerful studio monster.

Versatile performance synthesizer with an analogue vibe

ACB Technology

Roland’s proprietary Analog Circuit Behaviour engine is designed to accurately recreate classic analogue synth sounds via cutting-edge digital modelling techniques. Featuring 8 voices of polyphony, 3 oscillators including a Sub Osc, high-res filters and a stunning array of parameter controls, the System 8 is Roland’s most comprehensive synth to date. Split and layer synths for unheard of sounds, and tap into the integrated vocoder, arpeggiator, CV/Gate outs, and advanced polyphonic step sequencer to fuel endless creative explorations.

Tons of top-notch effects are on hand for adding character and ambience, from overdrive, distortion, and fuzz to delay, chorus, reverb, and more. And just like the numerous synth parameters, the effects have grab-and-go controls that make it simple to enhance sounds as you play.

Creative Control

The Roland System-8 features a familiar TR-Rec style interface. It’s possible to perform and trigger loop sequences in real time, with the functionality and creative control as featured on the acclaimed Aira TR-8. The Arpeggio function is equipped with quick-access knobs for switching patterns and styles as you play, while Chord Memory allows you to trigger polyphonic note stacks with a single key. The SYSTEM-8 even has an advanced vocoder built in, offering another expressive option for delivering unique and memorable synth performances.

USB and CV/Gate Connectivity

Integrating System 8 with your current studio or live set-up is easy. With a simple USB interface built-in, it’s easy to connect to PC or Mac to use as a Plug-Out interface, MIDI controller or Audio Soundcard. With the built-in CV/Gate outputs, you can send note/pitch data from the synth engine and step sequencer to trigger your modular synths and retro gear.

What is Roland Plug-Out?

Roland’s Plug-Out technology provides seamless workflow between software and hardware. As a collection of regular Virtual Instruments, they can be played and manipulated like regular VSTs and Plug-Ins. Simply connect a Roland System Plug-Out synthesizer via USB, click Plug-Out, and you’ve got all the parameters, sounds and characteristics of up to 3 synths loaded wherever you go.

In addition to its impressive internal sound engine, the SYSTEM-8 features three expansion slots for hosting and controlling Roland’s PLUG-OUT software synths. JUPITER-8 and JUNO-106 PLUG-OUTs are included, giving you immediate access to authentic sonic reproductions of these Roland classics. Optional PLUG-OUTs such as the SH-2, SH-101, PROMARS, and others are supported as well. Using the SYSTEM-8’s Performance mode, you’re able to combine the internal synth engine and hosted PLUG-OUTs to create super-synth patches with layered voices, custom splits, and more.

Feature Summary

Versatile performance synthesizer with advanced ACB technology and 49 full-size keys

Internal sound engine delivers classic analog tones and dynamic modern sounds with analog vibe

Hosts up to three PLUG-OUT synths; JUPITER-8 and JUNO-106 PLUG-OUTs included

Advanced low-pass, high-pass, and side-band filters with high-resolution controls

Massive real-time control with dedicated knobs, sliders, and buttons

Polyphonic step sequencer with classic TR-REC style interface

Arpeggio, vocoder, and polyphonic Chord Memory functions

CV/Gate outputs for interfacing with modular synths and vintage gear

Large selection of onboard effects with hands-on controls

USB audio/MIDI interface and control surface mode

Tech Specs:

• 49 Keys with Velocity Sensitivity
• Sound Generator Models – System-8, Plug-Out1, Plug-Out2, Plug-Out3
• Maximum Polyphony – 8 Voices
• User Memory – Patch: 64 (8 memories x 8 banks, per one model)
• Performance: 64 (8 memories x 8 banks)
• LFO Section
• Oscillator 1 Section
• Oscillator 2 Section
• Oscillator 3/Sub Oscillator Section
• Mixer Section
• Pitch Section
• Filter Section
• Amplifier Section
• Effect Section
• Delay/Chorus Section
• Reverb Section
• Knobs: PORTAMENTO, TEMPO
• Controller: LEGATO, TEMPO SYNC
• Key Mode: MONO/UNISON/POLY
• Step Sequencer – 64 steps with step recording & realtime recording
• Pitch bend and modulation lever, BEND SENS PITCH, BEND SENS FILTER, MOD SENS PITCH, MOD SENS FILTER
• 16 characters 2 line LCD
• SD Card (SDHC supported) for backup/restore function
• PHONES jack: Stereo 1/4-inch phone type
• OUTPUT (L/MONO, R) jacks: 1/4-inch TRS phone type
• INPUT (L/MONO, R) jacks: 1/4-inch phone type
• CV/GATE OUTPUT jacks: Miniature phone type
• TRIGGER IN jack: Miniature phone type
• PEDAL (HOLD, CONTROL) jacks: 1/4-inch phone type
• MIDI (IN, OUT) connectors
• USB port: USB type B (Audio/MIDI)
• DC IN jack
• Power Supply – AC Adaptor
• Dimensions – 881 (W) x 364 (D) x 109 (H) mm
• Weight – 5.9kg
• Included Accessories – Owner’s manual, AC adaptor, Power cord