JD-800 is a Roland’s digital synthesizer launched in 1991. The instrument provides 24 voices when one tone is used and reduces the polyphony to 6 notes when 4 tones are active (a patch can include up to 4 tones). The synthesis is based on proprietory Linear Arithmetic technology which is a combination of sample playback and digital synthesis. There are 3MB of PCM ROM for storing 108 waveforms which can be expanded up to 1MB. JD-800 is 5-part multitimbral (+ one drum part). TVF is Roland’s famous Time Variant Filter represented in the unit structure with a resonant multi-mode filter.

Memory delivers capacity for 64 patches. The front panel is laid out with multiple controls including sliders and knobs for comprehensive editing ensuring quick and open patch programming. Some of built-in waveforms are short and are created to liven up the attack, just to add to the sound while others are comprised to receive some long-evolving pads. 7 effects can be applied in a single mode bringing some vibrance while 3 effects are available in a multi mode.

The editing and adjusting is a hands-on process: layer buttons can operate in real time for switching the tones and in an edit mode for choosing the parameters you want to adjust, while palette sliders will edit the settings (recently triggered parameters) of all 4 tones independently and simultaneously or help to achieve the balance between tones in a patch.

The unit was used by Vangelis, Duran Duran, Keith Emerson, Jean Michel Jarre, William Orbit, The Prodigy, Tangerine Dream.

Tags: digital synthesizer