The Roland Fantom FA-76 is a robust music workstation that builds upon the company's S+S (sample-based) synthesis technology. It features a 64-voice multitimbral synth based on XV-series architecture, housed in an attractive titanium chassis with a high-quality 76-note keyboard.

While the Fantom doesn't introduce revolutionary changes to Roland's synthesis architecture, it refines and consolidates features from previous models (JD, JV, XP, and XV series) into a powerful, user-friendly workstation. The implementation of stereo waveforms for each tone is a notable improvement, though many onboard waves remain in mono.

Key Features:

• 76-note keyboard with firm, playable action
• Large LCD screen for easy navigation and parameter display
• D-Beam controller for real-time parameter manipulation
• Four user-assignable knobs and buttons for additional control
• Built-in arpeggiator and drum pattern generator
• 'Favorite Sound' function for quick access to 64 user-selected patches
• Comprehensive master keyboard controller capabilities in Performance mode

Sound Engine Capabilities:

• 64 voices of polyphony
• 1024 patches (640 Preset - 5 banks A-E, 128 User, 256 GM2), 64 performances, 16 rhythm sets, 16 multitimbres
• 64MB of waveform memory (over 1000 waveforms)
• Expandable via two SRX-Series and one SR-JV80-series wave expansion boards
• Four-tone structure per patch, with each tone capable of using two waves for stereo sources
• Onboard effects: COSM 24-bit reverb, chorus, and 90 multi-effects algorithms

Modes:

• Patch Mode: For individual sound editing and playback
• Performance Mode: Layer or split up to 16 patches, with note priority and voice reserve options
• Multitimbre Mode: 16-part multitimbral setup for sequencing

Arpeggiator:

• 88 styles with variations
• Multiple playback modes
• Latch function

Sequencer:

• 120,000-note capacity
• Real-time and step recording
• Quantize, editing, and pattern functions
• Floppy disk storage for songs and data

Effects:

• 90 multi-effect types (50 in Multitimbre/Performance modes). Including COSM amp models and RSS 3D processing.
• Reverb and chorus/delay always available
• 2-band EQ for each output jack

Connectivity:

- 24-bit stereo digital output (coaxial and optical)
- Four audio outputs (configurable as two stereo pairs or four mono outputs)
- MIDI In, Out, and Thru
- Three pedal inputs (Hold and two assignable)
- Floppy drive for patch/performance/song storage and XP series import

Real-time Control:

• Matrix Control for modulation routing
• D-Beam controller
• Four user-assignable knobs and buttons
• Pitch/ bend lever

Notable Omissions:

• No sampling capabilities, no audio input, no import for audio files/ user waveforms
• No dedicated physical transport buttons for the sequencer
• Only one version of this model - 76-keys, no 61 keys nor 88 keys (see next generation Fantom-S and Fantom-S88)

Overall, the Fantom FA-76 offers a comprehensive workstation experience with a powerful sequencer, extensive sound library, and versatile effects. Its large display and intuitive controls make it user-friendly. While it lacks sampling capabilities, it excels in synthesis, sequencing, and live performance features.