Inside The Roland Boutique SE-02 Analog Synthesizer

In this video, Ranz Adamson (ranzee av) voids his warranty and takes a look inside the Roland Boutique SE-02 analog synthesizer.

The video covers close-up footage of the circuit board and SMT components, including identifying chips/ICs. The Boutique SE-02 was designed in collaboration with Studio Electronics, creators of the revered MidiMini, SE-1, ATC-1, Omega 8, Boomstar, and Tonestar synthesizers. It takes inspiration from the classic Minimoog design, but uses modern production techniques. 

For a point of comparison, here’s a look inside the Minimoog Model D, with Moog expert Nick Montoya:

10 thoughts on “Inside The Roland Boutique SE-02 Analog Synthesizer

  1. If the owners of these new Roland toys knew better, then they would never buy em, due to that they will not be able to replace the components in the future, as you can with older gear.

    Said in other words: It is a time-ticking bomb, not made to last.

    1. The Boutiques use modern production techniques, modern parts and are made in huge quantities.

      So, if you ever have a problem, the instruments will be easy and cheap to replace, and easy to repair for experienced technicians.

      It’s unlikely it will make economic sense to repair Boutiques down the road, though, because it will probably be cheaper to just by another one used.

  2. Agree. Wonder what kind of “DIY” SMT solder paste and re-flow line that board came out from. Rubbish solder quality almost worse than hand-soldering. Wonder if the whole Boutique and Roland line of products suffer the same faith. if yes, then indeed, Roland stuff now are disposables. BTW that little black board to board connector will fail some point in time if you cycle it too much. This all does not look quality.

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