Roland JP-8000 Music Synthesizer
January 16, 1997
Developed using a revolutionary new sound synthesis method, Roland introduces the first-of-its-kind JP-8000 Music Synthesizer. The JP-8000 combines a completely new "Analog Modeling" sound source with 38 front-panel knobs and sliders for extensive realtime control - delivering unique timbres and fat, vintage analog synth sounds in the digital domain.
Based on a new dedicated DSP oscillator, the JP-8000's Analog Modeling sound source generates seven totally independent waveform algorithms, producing sounds never before possible. Unlike PCM-based sound sources, which face limits with processing tasks such as filtering, the JP-8000's Analog Modeling sound source processes all of its basic waveforms through the DSP oscillator's calculations, for maximum filtering capability and drastic tonal variations.
In addition to modeling basic Saw tooth, Triangle and Square waves in Oscillator 2, the JP-8000 generates new waveforms like "Super Saw," "Triangle Mod," and "Feedback OSC" in Oscillator 1. With these new waveforms musicians gain access to an incredible array of sounds ranging from the fat analog synth sounds of the '60s and '70s to the new, cutting-edge sounds of modern techno and dance-related music.
Realtime control is the expressive "heart" of the 49-note, velocity-sensitive JP-8000. A robust pitch bend/modulation lever and assignable ribbon controller join 38 onboard knobs and sliders to provide comprehensive control of synthesizer parameters such as waveform type, filter cutoff and resonance, LFO rate and depth, and envelope (pitch, filter and amplitude). Additional knob-based "analog" functions like ring modulation, cross modulation and oscillator sync allow keyboardists to recreate the sounds from the past or develop totally new ones. And all knobs, sliders and realtime controls are intelligently arranged on the JP-8000's front panel for intuitive sound creation and tweaking.
The JP-8000 takes realtime sonic manipulation even further with an innovative Motion Control feature. With Motion Control, a built-in sequencer automatically records and continuously tracks the sequential realtime movement of control faders and knobs in up to eight measure loops. Through the playback of Motion Control loops, musicians' hands are free to play the keyboard while the JP-8000 plays back the realtime control changes perfectly.
Various types of programmable arpeggio patterns and a powerful RPS (realtime phrase sequencer) section make the JP-8000 perfect for DJ-style "remix" performances. The sophisticated arpeggiator includes five modes and dozens of beat patterns, as well as hold and tempo controls; the RPS section features 48 patterns, a 1-4 measure adjustable loop length, adjustable gate time, and seven input quantize modes. Both the arpeggiator and the RPS section can be easily sync'd with an external MIDI clock for advanced performance and MIDI applications.
The JP-8000 is fully MIDI-compatible. All slider, knob and ribbon controller movements are automatically sent to any external MIDI device in realtime. High-quality Roland digital delay and chorus effects and treble/bass tone controls on the front panel allow even further realtime sound shaping. And the JP-8000's 8-voice polyphony is perfect for brass, pads, ambient and other chord-voiced sounds.
Rounding out the amazing JP-8000's features are 128 patches and 64 performances in the preset memory; 128 patch and 64 performance locations in the user memory; a 16 x 2 backlit LCD; and flash ROM for easy future program updates. Rear-panel connections include left and right 1/4" audio outs, a headphone jack, hold and control pedal jacks, and MIDI in and out jacks. For more information, contact Roland Corporation U.S., 7200 Dominion Circle, Los Angeles, CA 90040, 213.685.5141, www.rolandus.com. | 
