Introduction - Roland SH-01A User Manual

INTRODUCTION

The SH-01A is a meticulous reproduction of the iconic Roland SH-101, one of the most popular classic synthesizers
of all time. Our Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology reproduces the SH-101's legendary sounds by faithfully
recreating the actual behavior of the original analog circuits, right down to the fine details and odd quirks that have
endeared the synth to musicians and producers for decades. The SH-01A builds on the great sounds and creative
immediacy of the original, now in the Roland Boutique format—offering exciting new polyphonic capabilities, new
performance features, and a level of authenticity.
BEAUTY THROUGH SIMPLICITY
The now-legendary SH-101 was a seemingly simple monophonic synthesizer launched in 1982. Unlike more complex
synthesizers available at the time, the SH-101 quickly became popular for its characteristic tone and simple one-VCO
→ one-VCF → one-VCA → one-LFO structure. A legion of artists found it quick to program and adept at bright edgy
tones and exciting sound effects. Its bass sounds are universally revered, and somehow any sound it produces
always just fits perfectly in a mix. More than thirty years later, the SH-101's sounds continue to be sought after by
artists the world over. It's a staple of vintage synth collectors and well-equipped, world-class studios, and now returns
as the inspiration for the SH-01A.
A IS FOR AUTHENTIC
Original SH-101s are becoming increasingly rare, making them ever more expensive on the used market. Because of
this, many have resorted to sample packs, hardware knockoffs, or software plug-ins loosely inspired by the SH-101.
The SH-01A accurately recreates what makes the original so special, and the interface, while more compact, is 100%
authentic. The sound is vibrant and alive thanks to Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology. ACB is used to
recreate all the details and quirks of the original hardware by modeling each analog circuit, right down to the
component level. Face-to-face consultation with the original designers and relentless research beyond the original
schematics provides meticulously recreated oscillator, filter, and envelope behavior—a perfect foundation to build
upon for a new generation of "101" fans.
AN INSPIRED, ICONIC SEQUENCER REVISITED
One of the most creative features of the original SH-101 was its 100-note step sequencer. Press Load, add
sequential notes with legato and rests, and press Play. Easy. Designed to inspire through simplicity, the SH-101
sequencer has been the source of countless bass lines and lead melodies on legendary tracks. But the limitation of
playing one sequence back at a time has been resolved with the SH-01A. Now you can save and access 64
sequence patterns, perfect for any performance situation. Recall any pattern at any time, and use the sequencer to
control your modular rig, hardware synthesizers, and software plugins via CV/Gate, MIDI, and USB.
DID YOU SAY POLYPHONIC?
The SH-101 found its power in a monophonic voice for a wide variety of sounds. The SH-01A now has four voices,
allowing for more modes to expand upon the original's sound palette. On top of Mono mode, you can stack the four
voices in Unison mode to add some punch. Chord mode layers any four notes, and can be shifted up and down in
semi-tone intervals. Poly mode allows for four notes to be played simultaneously, making the mono synth now
capable of pads and chords.
PORTABLE. PERFORMER.
The simple design of the SH-101 made patch creation immediate, with sounds quickly forming under the movement
of each key and slider. But that inspiring sound could vanish as quickly as it appeared due to its lack of patch
memory. The SH-01A adds 64 writeable patches that can serve as presets for different tracks or quick starting points
for experimenting with new sound designs, making inspiration only a button press away.
The SH-01A takes the original SH-101's portability and stage prowess to a whole new level. It's small enough to take
just about anywhere, yet ruggedly built with sturdy knobs, metal-shaft sliders, and solid silver buttons like the original.
It has several tilt options for easy viewing in various live and studio scenarios, and can serve as a low-latency,
portable audio interface. In addition, it has a built-in speaker, and even runs on batteries. And when mounted in the
optional K-25m Keyboard Unit, it can be used as a compact, all-in-one synth with 25 velocity-sensitive keys. You
might actually be in a better position to rock out with this on your skateboard, or moped than the original SH-101 was
advertaised as being good for. I wouldn't do that myself, but I think you could proably pull it off if you really wanted to.
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