Roland today released a major update for the SH-4d Desktop Synthesizer, Version 2.0.
v2.0 is a free update that offers new sonic capabilities, with two expressive new OSC Models, pattern chaining for streamlined performances and workflow refinements.
Here’s what’s new in SH-4d Desktop Synthesizer v2.0:
SH-4d Desktop Synthesizer v2.0 Features:
- Two new OSC Models
- STEP for step-based LFO modulation to produce dynamic movement within tones. From rigid, classic analog step sequencer-inspired phrases locked into the groove, to experimental soundscapes with curves, swells, bleeps and bloops.
- HARMONIC for rich, layered sounds with a classic drawbar organ layout. Prime for creating essential house bass tones, bell-like chimes, deep pads, and powerful organ sounds with hands-on control of four harmonically tuned drawbars.
- Workflow refinements
- PATTERN CHAIN for streamlined hands-free performances and song construction.
- SYSTEM-LEVEL FX options for consistent Reverb, Delay, and Chorus settings across all patterns for cohesive mixes in the studio as well as uninterrupted pattern switching while playing live.
- QUICK OVERWRITE for saving tone and pattern data with less steps, never breaking creative momentum.
- UNDO/REDO function now supported up to 10 times for worry-free experimentation when creating sequences.
- New SUB-STEP options for off-grid note entry, shifting synth and drum hits behind-the-beat for looser grooves and greater variations when paired with Probability.
- Extended MIDI control with improved program change implementation and new options for which MIDI data is transmitted to external devices.
See the Roland site for details on SH-4d Desktop Synthesizer v2.0.
What was it that stopped them from releasing this update earlier? Literally two years of waiting. Waiting so badly that the prices dropped on the used market. I know multiple people who have tried to sell theirs and no one wanted them.
Good update, but I sold mine and moved on to better pastures like Digitone II. Going to remember this the next time I think about purchasing a Roland product.
If I had to guess, they didn’t release it earlier because it wasn’t ready? 🙂
Or because Superbooth.
The thing with Roland is, that they seem to rush their products and especially their UI without thinking of making it expandable in the future. The SP404 is a great example of it. It has gotten a lot of new features (well the last one was really a head scratcher, though). but the hardware is just not made for this. If the button labels don’t at least give you a hint of what’s going on, it’s hard to use this thing. Shift Remain Something gets you in Pad mute mode, for example.
With the SH-4d (what a catchy name, btw) it seems the same. Something hold does activate something. The faders can be used to control parameters, but yeah you can use the knobs as well. Err… OK then.
I agree with you, that getting a device with a well though out user interface makes a good instrument, not the amount of hidden features it has. Roland’s products are somehow all really bad when it comes to UI and menus. Also they have shitty displays.
In 100% agreement there with you. And I had an SP-404 too… the only way to even think about learning it easily was to order custom vinyl wraps that had updated shortcuts like this one https://www.etsy.com/listing/1768545318/ and even then, you are hunting and pecking for the feature you’re looking for. The software outgrew the hardware for sure, but at the same time I have to give them props for squeezing the hell out of it and bringing so many new features even with external software like Koala and Serato. Wish the hardware people at Roland would think more abstractly for a change.
The “something hold” is the shift key, which Wikipedia tells me was first used on a typewriter in 1878.
It’s really not as complicated or confusing as everyone makes it out to be. Sure it takes a while to familiarize yourself with the layout, but you can same the same thing about the controls on a microwave oven.
Microwaves do not have shift buttons. Also, 404’s problem is that the features are not where you think they are – the labels don’t match up. And now with so many updates, the hardware front panel has not been updated to match it. Take a look at this vinyl sticker and compare it to the current 404 labels: https://www.etsy.com/listing/1768545318/
Will Roland be replacing their discontinued boutique SE-02 with another analog synth? ?
If you liked SE-02, skip Roland and go straight to https://www.studioelectronics.com/products/desktop/SE-02/ cause they are the ones who designed it. You’ll like their other stuff.
Not pleased my sh4d black screened on me after doing this update and i have yet to hear anything from roland the last several attempts of contacting them .