We round up the most exciting new product announcements from the MusikMesse trade show in Frankfurt, including huge news about a shock return to analogue instruments for Roland.
Roland
Details of Roland’s AIRA modular system have emerged. The centrepiece of the setup is the new System-1m rack-mount module (above), which is a semi-modular synth based on the existing System-1 but with the addition of 19 CV/gate and audio patch points. In addition to its standard virtual analogue synth architecture, the unit can also run the System-1’s Plug-Out emulations of Roland analogue synths.
In addition to the System-1m, the AIRA modular setup includes four Eurorack-compatible digital effect modules in the form of the Bitrazer bitcrusher, Torcido distortion, Scooper scatter/looper and Demora delay.
Prices are set to be $599 for the System-1m and $299 each for the effect modules. We’ll update with full specs and availability as soon as we get the info.
Roland has also announced a shock return to analogue instruments in the form of the System-500 Eurorack modules: “Roland is also pleased to announce the development of the System-500, an all-new, fully analogue modular synthesizer based on two of the most revered electronic instruments of all time – the System-700 and System-100m. Designed exclusively for Eurorack, the System-500 delivers classic Roland sound with all the advantages and reliability of a modern instrument.”
The leaked image below shows modules which take major visual cues from the classic System 700.
Modal Electronics
British synth manufacturers Modal Electronics have expanded their product range with a series of synths based on similar technology to the analogue-digital hybrid, 12-voice polyphonic 002. The 001 is a two-voice model (£1,350), the 008 is an 8-voice “analogue powerhouse” (price TBC), while the 002R is a rack-mount version of the 002, available in 8-voice (£1,795) or 12-voice (£1,995) versions.
Universal Audio
UA have updated the Apollo interface range with next-generation models. All the new Apollo units feature improved A/D and D/A converters. The Apollo 8 includes four mic pre-amps, while the 8p includes eight. The flagship Apollo 16 features 16 channels of analogue I/O plus quad core UAD support.
Pioneer
Pioneer were showing off recently announced products including the XDJ-1000 and XDJ-RX, but the most exciting news for us was the arrival of two new studio monitor options. The RM-05s and RM-07s feature a co-axial design. Both will go on sale in May with a suggested retail price of €549 and €729 respectively.
01.57 PM
I think I’m in love with the SH1M and those other modules, but my wallet seems to be in pain.