Roland launches "potent" pocket polysynth based on legendary SH-101
The S-1 Tweak Synthesizer is "primed to push classic SH tones into new dimensions"
Roland has launched a new “potent” pocket polysynth based on the legendary SH-101.
The classic monosynth was released in 1982 and used by a wealth of '90s electronic producers and artists including Autechre, Juan Atkins, Aphex Twin, Squarepusher, the Prodigy, A Guy Called Gerald and many more.
Featuring an "uncomplicated" interface and a 64-step sequencer, the battery-powered S-1 Tweak Synthesizer distils the essence of its '80s counterpart into a smaller model that expands on the original with four-voice polyphony. Users can create "lavish tones" with the oscillator, envelope, filter, and LFO sections while the OSC Draw function allows you to draw your own waveforms.
Performance features include the D-Motion controller, which enables sound changes just by moving the synth and the Step Loop function for "on-the-fly rhythmic improv". According to Roland, the S-1 Tweak Synth is "primed to push classic SH tones into new dimensions".
Also created using the latest generation of Roland's Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) emulation technology, the S-1 Tweak Synth joins Roland's AIRA Compact cache of pocket-sized instruments that includes the T-8 Beat Machine, J-6 Chord Synthesizer and E-4 Voice Tweaker.
The Roland S-1 Tweak Synth is available for $199.99. Find out more on the Roland site.
The S-1 Tweak synth follows the arrival of Roland's SH-4d synthesiser, which was released earlier in the year and described as a "desktop powerhouse". Inspired by Roland's first synth, the SH-1000, it offers 11 oscillator models, a multi-part sequencer with four synth parts and a customisable drum part, and a "hands-on" interface packed with 32 knobs, multiple buttons and four sliders.
In 2022, Roland marked its 50th birthday with a special anniversary website celebrating some of its most iconic pieces of gear, including the SH-101.
