Roland Introduces The JUNO-DS Synthesizer

US 61-key and weighted 88-key versions offer enhancements over previous generations 15/09/15

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Roland has introduced the JUNO-DS Synthesizer, which they describe as a powerful and versatile keyboard for performing and recording musicians. They tell us that this latest evolution of the popular JUNO series delivers many enhancements over previous generations, including improved pianos, additional organ sounds, waveform expansion capability, Phrase Pads, new vocal effects and more. Along with a 61-key model, the JUNO-DS is also available in a weighted-action version with 88 keys to complement the expressive new piano sounds. Here's the full details in Roland's own words...

Relied on by players around the world, Roland's JUNO synths are known for their high-quality sounds, intuitive operation, portability and exceptional value. The JUNO-DS takes the iconic series to a new level, offering many feature updates for performing keyboardists. Lightweight and mobile, the instrument is packed with great Roland sounds for any musical style. And with battery or AC operation, users have the flexibility to play anywhere their music takes them.

Many stage players rely on pianos and organs more than any other sounds. The JUNO-DS acoustic and electric pianos have been newly enhanced with improved sound and response, and the selection of organs has been increased. The 1000-plus sound set from the previous-generation JUNO-Di is included as well, and patches from that keyboard are fully compatible with the JUNO-DS.
To complement its onboard sounds, the JUNO-DS supports internal waveform expansion via USB for unlimited tonal range. Over 1000 EXP sounds are available for free download at Roland's Axial website, including top-quality acoustic piano collections, world instruments, percussion, loops and more. In addition, users can load in WAV sounds from their personal library and play them from the keyboard.

The JUNO-DS comes standard with a quality 61-note synth-action keyboard. For the first time in the JUNO's long history, there's an 88-note model as well, providing a great option for both piano-based pros and serious piano students. Roland's Ivory Feel-G Keyboard with progressive hammer action delivers high-end touch and playability for the JUNO-DS's expressive new piano sounds, all while keeping the instrument light and easy to carry.

Like previous JUNO synths, the JUNO-DS features an intuitive design that makes it easy to call up usable sounds right away. In addition, there are even more adjustable parameters and real-time controls than before, perfect for users who like to customize patches and manipulate sounds on stage. The JUNO-DS also includes eight Phrase Pads on the front panel, allowing players to supplement live performances with samples or music files stored on USB memory.

The JUNO-DS's convenient mic input is ideal for solo performers and singer/songwriters, allowing them to achieve professional vocal sounds without having to carry around extra gear. There's a dedicated vocal reverb, plus a built-in vocoder and an Auto Pitch effect for singing with the "stepped" electronic vocal sounds heard in many modern songs.

With the onboard eight-track pattern sequencer, users can easily capture their ideas for songs and beats. Non-stop operation enhances the creative flow, allowing for quick development of full arrangements. The sequencer is also convenient for supporting live performances with pre-made backing music and on-the-fly looping.

In addition to being a powerful stage keyboard, the JUNO-DS excels in computer music production. The integrated USB audio/MIDI interface provides a solid front end for a mobile or studio recording setup, and there's even a dedicated DAW Control mode for controlling music software from the JUNO-DS's panel.