LAB POINTS

• powerful + flexible synthesizer w/ plug-out capabilities
• proprietary ACB (Analog Circuit Behavior) technology faithfully recreates analog behavior in fine detail
• innovative design + performance-ready controls
• plug-in versions of legendary Roland synths can be hosted in the SYSTEM-1 with no computer required
• 4x oscillators for fat synth tones 
• oscillator colors create continuous waveform changes from simple to complex
• thin keyboard w/ 25 normal sized keys
• all parameters can be controlled with physical knobs and sliders with LED indicators
• advanced arpeggiator with Scatter function
• Scatter jog dial offers 10 different phrase variations with dynamic, real-time control over 10 stages of depth
• works seamlessly w/ other AIRA gear
• compact, yet comfortable to play

LAB REVIEW

The AIRA SYSTEM-1 is the latest in a long lineage of SYSTEM synthesizers from Roland. The Roland SYSTEM series began in the 1970's with the SYSTEM 100, 100M and the mythical 700, all of which are highly regarded for their flexibility and character of sound. These traits are brought to the 21st century with the new AIRA SYSTEM-1, a powerful new synthesizer that "breaks new ground with remarkable flexibility and access to a vast palette of tones with the bold, unmistakable character associated with Roland synthesizers for nearly four decades." Most unique about the SYSTEM-1 is its ability to control, and host (without a computer!) software recreations of classic Roland synths, while being able to switch to the unit's own internal sounds. This "PLUG-OUT" capability puts the SYSTEM-1 in a class of its own. Utilize the 73 hands-on controls to shape bold sounds via 4 oscillators and Roland's ACB (Analog Circuit Behavior) technology, or harness the power of a Roland classic, like the SH-101 as a plug-in. The unit is exceptionally compact, but comfortable to play thanks to its thin build and 25 normal size keys. In addition, the SYSTEM-1 integrates perfectly with other AIRA gear. An excellent addition to any studio setup, and a great value for just under $500.

TECH SPECS

• keyboard: 25 keys (without velocity)
• maximum polyphony: 4 voices (SYSTEM-1 Mode)
• user memory: 8
• SYSTEM-1 mode elements: OSC, FILTER, AMP, LFO, MIXER, EFFECTER
• PLUG-OUT mode elements: depend on loaded PLUG-OUT software
• arpeggio: 6 type / 6 step
• scatter: 10 type / 10 depth
• controls: VOLUME knob, TEMPO knob, PORTAMENTO knob, LEGATO button, PITCH BEND/SCATTER dial, KEY HOLD button, OCT UP/DOWN button, MOD button
• connectors: 1/4" phones jack, 1/4" L/R out, 1/4" pedal hold/control, MIDI I/O, USB port, DC in
• dimensions: 18 10/16" x 11 3/16" x 2 13/16" / 472 x 283 x 70mm
• weight: 5 lbs 5 oz. / 2.4 kg
• Pitch / Mod Wheel
• 16 character, 2 line LCD display
• Headphones Jack: Stereo 1/4-inch phone type
• Output Jacks (L/MONO, R): 1/4-inch phone type
• Input Jack (LINE(MONO) / Guitar Input): 1/4-inch phone type
• MIDI Connectors (IN, OUT)
• USB COMPUTER Port (USB Hi-Speed AUDIO/MIDI)
• MIC Input Jack: XLR type, unbalance
• dimensions: 22 11/16" x 9 11/16" x 3 6/16" / 575mm x 245mm x 85mm
• weight: 4 lbs 14 oz. / 2.2 kg

COMES WITH

• power supply
• owner's manual