Produced between 1978 and 1981, the Roland Jupiter-4 was one of the first polyphonic synthesizers. Its huge sound and unique features have been recreated in software form for your DAW and the Roland System-8 keyboard.
Dubbed the Compuphonic, the Jupiter-4 utilized an NEC 8048 microcontroller to digitally control its analog circuitry, giving it many unique features such as patch memory, voice modes, and an arpeggiator. It was the company's first self-contained polyphonic synthesizer and the first model of Roland's infamous Jupiter line. With its huge sound and advanced features, it was embraced by performers like The Cars, Duran Duran, Thomas Dolby, Vangelis, Devo, and many others.
The Jupiter-4 software synth is an authentic recreation, with all of the quirks and instabilities of the original hardware. Using their proprietary Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) modeling technology, Roland analyzed the original hardware units, circuit diagrams, and other data to create the most complete recreation available today. Through the latest advancements in ACB, Roland has created a new Circuit Mod function that allows you to sweep through multiple trim settings using a single macro control. This emulates the original internal trim controls found on the Jupiter-4 that were used to tweak the components when they drifted out of spec. Sometimes, these characteristics were what made the Jupiter-4 unique, so you can dial those in or take them out completely. Another interesting control added to the software is the Condition parameter, which simulates the effects of aging. Now you can set it to brand-new condition or road worn.
Although the Jupiter-4 software carefully recreates all of the nuances from the original synth, it also features all of the modern conveniences you've come to expect. 8 voice polyphony doubles the original number, for example. The LFO, arpeggiator, and effects all sync to the tempo. It's resizable UI also fits into any work environment, and it is available in a wide range of versions, including VST3, AAX, and AU. The Jupiter-4 software also includes up to 64 patches per bank and includes a convenient panel for managing all of your favorite creations. Other modern features include an effects section with numerous types of overdrive, distortion, ensemble, phaser, delay, chorus, flanger, reverbs, and more.
The Jupiter-4 software is also compatible with Roland's System-8 hardware synth, which allows owners to change the software's panel to match the System-8 for intuitive, one-to-one control. Or by using the plug-out function, owners can turn the System-8 into a standalone Jupiter-4. The Jupiter-4 software is part of the Roland Cloud Pro and Ultimate memberships, or it can be purchased as a standalone version.
What a great way to own a piece of synthesizer history, and with the System-8, take it on the road!
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