The Roland Boutique SH-01A is a meticulous replica of one of the most iconic and influential synthesizers: the SH-101. First released in the 1980s, the SH-101 has earned its place in the electronic music Hall of Fame, thanks to its ability to deliver astonishingly fat bass lines, screaming leads and wild effects.
The SH-01A builds on this famous heritage, reimagining it with the latest technology and bringing it up to date with modern production and performance standards. Yet it does so while remaining true to the sound character and user interface of the original.
In this review, we dive deep into the features of this compact yet mighty synthesizer. We’ll explore its sound architecture, user interface, and performance capabilities, and assess whether or not this synth captures the magic of the original SH-101, and whether it merits a place in your music production or live performance setup.
Contents
Unboxing and First Impressions
Upon receiving the Roland Boutique SH-01A Synthesizer, the first thing you notice is the sturdy, compact packaging. Upon opening the box, you’re introduced to an elegantly designed instrument in a solid metal chassis. The unit’s compact size immediately beckons an urge to delve in, producing a sense of connection.
Although smaller than the original SH-101, it’s the innovative technology and crafty design packed into such a lean frame that astounds. The synthesizer is designed with portability in mind to handle both studio sessions and performance rigours with equal aplomb. The synthesizer comes swathed in a protective covering, ensuring it reaches your hands in mint condition.
Apart from the actual synthesizer, the box contains a user manual, which is user-friendly and simplifies getting to know your new piece of equipment, and a set of four AA batteries. Additionally, there’s also a mini-plug to dual 1/4 inch cable that is essential for connecting the SH-01A to an external device. However, it’s worth mentioning here that a power supply isn’t included in the package.
The synthesizer’s build quality and finish are simply stunning. The body feels solid and the buttons have a smooth, easy action. There’s definitely a vintage vibe going on with the control layout, the colours, and the satisfyingly chunky knobs. It also boasts a unique high-resolution touch sensor keyboard which eliminates the need for a traditional keyboard, giving it the remarkably small size that makes it so convenient for portability.
In terms of layout and controls, you will find that they have stayed faithful to the SH-101’s original design—with just the right touch of modernity. The trimmed down look doesn’t take away from the overall functionality, the controls seem intuitive and easily reachable. The LED display gives the unit a sleek, modern look, adding to its appeal.
Our initial impression of the Roland Boutique SH-01A is of a promising, portable synthesizer, incorporating the nostalgic elements from the original SH-101 design while bringing necessary modern touches into the mix. It delivers much more than the first appearance occurs. Keep reading with us to find out how well it can perform in practice.
| Product Name | Amazon Link |
|---|---|
| Roland SH 01A Synthesizer | Find more info on Amazon here! |
| Roland Boutique Synthesizer Domestic products%E3%80%91 | Find more info on Amazon here! |
Key Features and Functionality
The Roland Boutique SH-01A is an emulation of the classic SH-101, a compact synthesizer that has won over its fair share of enthusiasts over the decades, thanks to its intuitive interface and distinctive sound. Let’s delve into some of its key features and functionality.
Compact and Portable Design
The SH-01A inherits the compact and portable design of its predecessor. The unit is designed to be easy to carry, making it perfect for those on the go.
Sound Quality
Roland has kept the sound quality of the original SH-101, using their Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology to recreate its iconic sounds, from deep basses to spacey leads.
Four Voice Polyphonic Mode
Unlike the original unit which was monophonic, the SH-01A is polyphonic, meaning it can play up to four voices at once. This opens up an entire new realm of possibilities from chord work to lush arpeggiations.
Versatile Sequencer
The unit features a versatile 100-step sequencer, which now has the capability of storing 64 patterns, fantastic for live performances.
USB and MIDI Connectivity
Equipped with MIDI and USB connections, the SH-01A can easily integrate into your existing setup or function as a stand-alone unit.
Control options
The panel is well laid out, bringing together all of the original SH-101’s control options: oscillator, filter, envelope and sequencer controls, as well as several enhancements.
Unison, Chord, and Chord Memory Modes
The SH-01A features unison mode, which stacks four voices for thick, powerful basses and leads. In addition, the chord mode allows you to layer any combination of four notes, and can be stored in chord memory.
Build Quality
The SH-01A’s build quality is a reflection of Roland’s commitment to quality. It has a sturdy aluminum panel, and its metal pots are designed to withstand extensive use.
All these features coalesce to make the SH-01A a compact, versatile, and extremely powerful tool for musicians, from producers to live performers. The updated functionality maintains the charm of the original while modernizing the workflow and increasing usability.
Sound Quality and Performance
The Roland Boutique SH-01A is a well-crafted clone of the iconic SH-101, a synthesizer renowned for its role in shaping the sound of electronic music. With the Boutique version, we are treated to a faithful emulation that maintains much of the sonic character of its predecessor, powered by Roland’s Analog Circuit Behaviour (ACB) technology.
When it comes to the sound quality, the SH-01A excels by offering the robust and chunky tones that were synonymous with the classic SH-101. Its oscillator packs an ample low end, delivering powerful basses that range from warm and thick to crisp and cutting. Expect sharp, punchy attacks in the mid-range that’s effective for blasting through any mix. The high-end detail is just as impressive, capable of producing shimmering leads and affecting FX. All in all, the SH-01A brings a raw, powerful sound that can easily lend itself to any genre of music.
The SH-01A’s performance is as impressive as its sound. Its sequencer is both intuitive and versatile, providing 100 patterns for storage so you can sequence up to 64 steps per patch. The SH-01A not only allows for easy entry of notes and rests, but also slides and transpositions, resulting in dynamic and moving sequences. This makes it a great performance instrument, encouraging users to experiment with new sounds and sequences.
Furthermore, SH-01A’s four-voice polyphonic mode is amazing, a whole new world compared to the original SH-101. Whether you want to play chords or use the unison for thicker leads and basses, it adapts effortlessly. It includes multiple oscillator types: saw, square, and pulse waveforms with PWM, along with noise; each offering their unique texture and depth to your sound.
Whether you’re a seasoned synthesizer wizard or a beginner looking to dive into the world of electronic music, the Roland Boutique SH-01A offers a winning mix of professional sound quality, intuitive design and high performance, faithfully capturing the essence and versatility of its predecessor.
Connectivity and Integration
The Roland Boutique SH-01A Synthesizer offers a wide array of connectivity and integration options that make it a versatile tool for any musician or producer.
In terms of analog connectivity, the SH-01A comes equipped with a headphone-out port, an output jack, a mix-in jack, and a CV/out jack. When building a larger analog setup, these outputs complement the CV and Gate outputs to support a wide variety of analog equipment.
For digital connectivity, SH-01A features MIDI in and out, as well as host and device USB ports. Thanks to the included USB port, linking the SH-01A to a computer for direct MIDI communication is a breeze. This ensures straightforward recording, sequencing, and software synthesizer control.
Given its size, one may expect the SH-01A’s connectivity to be limited. However, Roland has packed in a surprising amount of flexibility, making it easy to integrate this little synth into your home studio setup, or even larger professional rigs.
Moreover, Roland’s SH-01A can be integrated seamlessly into a digital audio workstation (DAW) setup. The Boutique’s high-speed USB functionality ensures smooth data transfer, enabling producers to use the SH-01A as a high-quality audio interface.
In summary, the connectivity and integration capabilities of the Roland Boutique SH-01A are comprehensive and flexible, making it a valuable asset in both professional and home studio environments.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compact size: The Roland Boutique SH-01A is small and portable, making it perfect for on-the-go composers and live performers.
- Immaculate imitation: This device pays an astonishingly detailed tribute to the sound and feel of the classic Roland SH-101, a highly prized analog mono-synth from the 1980s.
- Versatility: The SH-01A incorporates the modern advantages of digital, like saving your patches (settings) and polyphony (multiple notes at once). It offers four voice polyphony in addition to the original’s monophonic functionality. This greatly extends the sound palette and potential uses for musicians.
- Build Quality: The build quality hasn’t been compromised despite its size. It feels substantial and the rotary controls feel smooth and accurate.
- USB Power: Being able to power the unit via USB is a neat option. It can run off a computer, wall plug or even a battery pack.
Cons
- Small Controls: Due to the small size of the unit, the slider and knob controls are also miniaturized which can be a challenge for live tweaking.
- No Keyboard: The SH-01A, like all of the Roland boutique series, is a ‘module’ which means it doesn’t come with its own keyboard. However, it can easily be connected to any midi keyboard.
- Pricey: While it’s not outrageously expensive, the Roland Boutique SH-01A priced might be slightly high considering that it’s a reissue, though it offers much more functionality.
- Limited production: The Roland Boutique range is made in limited quantities which could make it difficult to get a hold of.
Comparisons with Other Synthesizers
The Roland Boutique SH-01A is a meticulously detailed replica of the iconic SH-101, one of Roland’s first synthesizers. It features a compact design without compromising on its audio quality. In comparing the SH-01A with other synthesizers in the market, certain unique features distinguish it.
Firstly, the SH-01A is about one-fourth the size of the SH-101, a major selling point for musicians who are looking for a more portable option. In comparison to other portable synthesizers like the Korg Volca FM or the Behringer MS-1, the SH-01A offers approximately the same amount or even greater functionality in an equivalent or smaller footprint.
Sound wise, the SH-01A utilizes Roland’s Analog Circuit Behaviour (ACB) technology which impeccably recreates all the nuances that gave the SH-101 its distinctive sound. Alternatives like the Behringer MS-1 and the Moog Werkstatt-01 provide similar analog sounds, but don’t quite capture the distinct character of the SH-101 that the SH-01A delivers.
While the SH-01A sends contemporary musicians down a memory lane with its retro-style design and analog sounds, it also keeps up with modern music production needs. It offers advanced capabilities like 64 pattern sequencing, which is something not commonly found in other synthesizers such as Arturia MicroBrute or Korg MS-20 Mini.
In terms of connectivity, the SH-01a takes the upper hand with comprehensive MIDI control and CV/Gate support—features that are generally preserved for larger, more expensive models. For instance, creations like the Teenage Engineering PO-32 have restrictions and fewer capabilities in this aspect.
Overall, when set side by side with similar synthesizers in the range like the Arturia MicroBrute, Korg Volca FM, Behringer MS-1, Moog Werkstatt-01, Korg MS-20 Mini, and the Teenage Engineering PO-32, the Roland Boutique SH-01A synth module stands out. With its combination of classic analog sound, advanced features, portable design, and comprehensive connectivity, it offers a substantial amount of versatility and value.
Price Point and Value for Money
The Roland Boutique SH-01A is competitively priced in the synthesizer market, especially considering the robust features and unmatched sound quality it possesses. While it may not be the most affordable option for beginners, the price is certainly commensurate with the quality and capabilities it offers. The synthesizer captures the iconic sound and vibe of the influential Roland SH-101, which alone justifies its price tag.
Music producers, electronic music enthusiasts, and synthesizer novices alike will find immense value in the SH-01A’s capacity for deep sound design, intuitive control interface, and compact form factor. Furthermore, the durability of the machine makes it a good long-term investment. It can withstand the rigors of live performance and rigorous usage, making it a reliable choice for both professionals and hobbyists.
The additional features such as the 64 pattern sequencer, four voice polyphonic capability, and versatile connectivity options for modern music production toolkits further amplify the value for money proposition of the Roland Boutique SH-01A. Therefore, it is worth considering this synthesizer for its acclaimed sound quality, profound functionality, and the legacy it carries, all packed within an incredibly compact design. Its price point matches its value, rendering it an excellent investment for anyone looking to explore the world of sound synthesis or expand their musical toolkit.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The Roland Boutique SH-01A is a worthy successor to the iconic SH-101. Its design aims to replicate the sound and user experience of the original synthesizer, while introducing modern updates that enhance its functionality.
One of the highlights of the SH-01A is its faithful reproduction of the SH-101’s legendary sound. The implementation of Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology ensures that each nuance of the original sound is captured. This makes it ideal for electronic musicians and producers who desire that classic SH-101 tone for their projects.
Moreover, the SH-01A brings forward modern advancements that broaden its scope of use. The added sequencer is a great innovation, allowing for simple programming and loop sequences, while the four-voice polyphonic mode enables more versatility in sound creation. The portability and sturdiness of the device also make it a suitable choice for touring musicians and producers on the go.
Its compact size and sturdy build, along with its MIDI and USB connectivity, make it a practical and portable piece of gear. However, some might find the small size and absence of a standard-sized keyboard a tad limiting. But, this drawback could easily be addressed by pairing it with a MIDI controller.
Despite its minor shortcomings, the SH-01A is a highly affordable and practical alternative to the original SH-101. It is great for those who crave the classic Roland sound but without the vintage price tag. Given its pedigree and features, we highly recommend considering the Roland Boutique SH-01A for both seasoned producers and beginners venturing into the world of synthesizers. Its user-friendly interface, high-quality sound, and modern innovations make it a worthy add-on to anyone’s gear list.