2016 NAMM Show: Roland shared this series of video demos that take a look at getting started with the new A-01 MIDI controller and 8-bit synthesizer.
The A-01 is one of the more surprising introductions at this year’s NAMM Show, because it offers a unique sound and a quirky collection of capabilities:
- The A-01 is the same size as Roland’s Boutique synths, and can dock in the Boutique K-25m keyboard.
- It’s a MIDI controller that works over full-size MIDI & USB.
- It’s also a wireless Bluetooth LE controller.
- It’s a unique 8-bit virtual analog synthesizer.
- It’s also a step sequencer.
- It’s got CV/Gate connectors, so it can control analog & modular gear.
For more info on the A-01, see the Roland site.
Pretty rubbish step sequencer there..
I actually think it´s quite an interesting approach, especially with the very limited hardware.
It looks fun, a little bit like the volca arguably a little bit more powerfull because of the more direct editing approach.
I really like this 8-bit synth.
Quite an effort making it happen on that hardware.
I’m putting my 8-bit string synthesizer in a full sized 49-key keyboard with Mod-Wheel and Pitchbend today.
Going to add a biquad LPF with resonane to make it more synth alike.
All on an ATmega328.
https://janostman.wordpress.com/how-to-build-your-very-own-string-synth/
at a 599$ price tag… will buy a Korg Minilogue and have money for a night out…
it is showing @ $399 not $599 – if it goes on sale or something I am really considering it because it has so much versatility in what it can do