SH-4d New Desktop Synth and Groovebox by Roland

A brand-new desktop synthesiser with 11 OSC models, the SH-4d was unveiled by Roland with the intention of what we believe to be the start of “the next phase” in its lineup of SH models. It has a multi-timbral sequencer, an extensive array of onboard effects, and 11 oscillator types that cover a variety of vintage and contemporary sounds.

Here’s what Roland has to say about it:

“Fifty years ago, Roland launched its first synthesizer, the groundbreaking SH-1000. The SH name has represented the company’s core synthesizer instruments ever since, merging innovative new technologies with tactile interfaces for quickly designing sounds at the moment.

The SH-4d opens the next chapter in the long-running series, offering Roland’s latest analog modeling advancements and a deep-yet-inviting panel that catalyzes creativity and rewards exploration at every turn.”

Take Control

The instrument’s front panel offers plenty of direct control, with a total of 32 knobs, four sliders, and a collection of multi-function buttons offering quick access to key settings. The synthesizer’s filter, amp, and LFO parameters each have their own control sections, and in an effort to prevent “menu-diving,” the on-board LCD display, sliders, and buttons automatically reconfigure their functions to match the chosen mode. There is also a D-Motion mode, which uses motion sensors to give the user physical movement-based X/Y control over two parameters.

Let’s Oscillate

There is a broad selection of oscillator models offered, including the SH-101 and Juno-106, which offer vintage Roland sounds from the past. There is also a PCM mode with a wide variety of sample-based sounds. More analogue-inspired patches from the past can be created with the help of the SH-3D, Chord, Ring, and Sync models, while Cross FM, Wavetable, and Sketch models offer a variety of contemporary digital sounds. The device also includes a flexible drum synthesiser with tone-shaping capabilities that enable users to design their own unique kit sounds from inception.

Effects & Sequencer

With nine distinct reverb models, five different chorus and delay types, five different delays, a variety of master EQ and compression processors, and a wide range of built-in effects, the SH-4d offers a wealth of options.
Four synth parts and a programmable rhythm part can run concurrently, and the on-board multi-timbral sequencer lets users piece together anything from short loops to lengthy compositions right on the device. The number of voices the instrument can provide varies based on the load on the sound generator, according to Roland, and can reach up to 60.

In and Out

I/O includes a stereo line-level output on two quarter-inch TRS connections and a stereo headphone output on a third connector. A set of 5-pin DIN sockets are used for MIDI I/O, and a pair of 3.5mm mini-jack connectors are used for audio input and an input for an external clock source.

The SH-4d can be charged using a typical USB-C phone adapter and can also operate for up to four hours on AA batteries. It has the ability to send 12 channels of audio to a host computer and can also work as a USB audio and MIDI link.

The SH-4d will be available to purchase in March 2023

More info here: https://www.roland.com/global/products/sh-4d/