Roland

Roland is best known for its legendary keyboards, but it also has a rich history in digital effects processors. Starting with early tape delays like the RE-201 in the 1970s, Roland’s innovation continued into the digital era with the SDE-2000 digital delay and the iconic SDD-320 Dimension D Chorus in 1981. Over the years, they introduced standout products such as the SRV-2000 reverb, famous for its characterful sound and use by Slash on “Sweet Child of Mine.” Roland’s attempt at high-end studio reverb with the R880 met limited success, leading them to focus on more affordable processors. The SRV-330 dimensional reverb and SDE-330 space delay are highly regarded, while the rare SDX-330 dimensional expander is famed for its superior chorus effects. Their final unit, the SRV-3030, was less successful and often confused with the well-regarded SRV-330, but they remain distinct products in Roland’s diverse effects legacy.

Made In Japan

Released in 1973 /

Roland RE-200 Space Echo

The Roland RE-200 Space Echo, released in 1973, is an analogue tape delay unit featuring a continuous loop tape system, two playback heads, and a built-in spring reverb. Offering warm, reliable echo and reverb effects, it was an early model in Roland’s Space Echo series and helped establish their reputation for high-quality tape-based effects.

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Made In Japan

Released in 1974 /

Roland RE-201 Space Echo

The Roland RE-201 when it was released in 1974, was an engineering masterpiece. It featured a sophisticated tape-echo effect and a built-in spring reverb, with different sound variations selectable via 12 different operating modes.

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Made In Japan

Released in 1974 /

Roland RE-101 Space Echo

The Roland RE-101 Space Echo, released in 1974, is an analogue tape delay unit offering the warm, organic echoes of the classic Space Echo line without the spring reverb found in the RE-201. Known for its reliable tape transport, simple controls, and rich, musical delays, the RE-101 became a favourite among dub, reggae, and electronic musicians. Its pure tape echo and durable design have made it a sought-after classic in studios and live setups.

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Made In Japan

Released in 1977 /

Roland RE-301 Chorus Echo

The Roland RE-301 Chorus Echo is a vintage tape delay unit known for its warm analogue sound. It features a built-in chorus for added modulation. The unit has straightforward controls for easy manipulation and is suitable for musicians seeking a classic, reliable delay effect with a touch of vintage charm.

Explore the full Roland Space Echo Series Series

Made In Japan

Released in 1978 /

Roland DC-30 Analog Chorus-Echo

The Roland DC-30 Analog Chorus-Echo is a vintage Japanese multi-effect unit combining rich BBD-based echo and chorus with stereo outputs, dual inputs, and extensive remote control options. Known for its warm analogue tone and flexible live performance features, it remains a sought-after classic for musicians and producers.

Made In Japan

Released in 1978 /

Roland DC-50 Digital Chorus

The Roland DC-50 Digital Chorus, released in 1978, is a desktop chorus and hall echo unit combining warm analogue BBD chorus with early digital echo. Designed for vocals and instruments, it offers simple controls, flexible inputs, and a rich, spacious sound that remains sought after for its classic late-70s Roland character.

Made In Japan

Released in 1978 /

Roland CR-78 CompuRhythm Drum Machine

The Roland CR-78 CompuRhythm was the first drum machine with a microprocessor, offering programmable storage alongside 34 versatile presets. Its analogue tones defined early electronic pop and rock, with Phil Collins’ In the Air Tonight immortalising its sound as one of the most atmospheric uses of a drum machine in popular music.

Made In Japan

Released in 1979 /

Roland RSS RV-800 Spring Reverb

Roland’s 1979 RSS series brought high-quality signal processing to the prosumer market at an affordable price, featuring stereo reverb, phasing, and graphic equalisation. The series integrated seamlessly with Roland’s electronic instruments, ensuring broad compatibility. The standout Roland RSS RV-800 offered stereo reverb with a built-in compressor for minimal distortion, independent panning for versatile soundscapes, and the option to isolate the reverb signal.

Made In Japan

Released in 1979 /

Roland SBF-325 Stereo Flanger

The Roland SBF-325 is a stereo flanger with dual audio delay lines. It has three different flanger effect modes and one chorus mode. It preceded the now famous Roland SDD-330 by two years in terms of rack mount chorus effectors.

Made In Japan

Released in 1980 /

Roland SRE-555 Chorus Echo

The Roland SRE-555 Chorus Echo is a rackmount tape delay based on the RE-501, offering chorus, tape echo and reverb effects. Designed for professional studio and live use, it features balanced XLR and 1/4″ inputs and outputs, a 77dB signal-to-noise ratio, and delays from 0.55 to 1.8 seconds. Its rack-friendly design and advanced noise reduction made it a reliable choice for engineers seeking classic Roland tape echo in a convenient format.

Explore the full Roland Space Echo Series Series

Made In Japan

Released in 1980 /

Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo

The Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo is the final and most advanced tape delay in Roland’s classic series. Combining tape echo, chorus and spring reverb, it features balanced XLR connections, noise reduction circuitry and delays up to 1.8 seconds. Its improved tape transport and sound-on-sound mode made it a studio favourite, delivering warm, analogue effects with reliable performance.

Explore the full Roland Space Echo Series Series

Made In Japan

Released in 1980 /

Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer

The Roland 1980 TR-808 is an analogue rhythm composer with extensive step memory, per-voice controls and comprehensive sync and trigger I/O. Its unmistakable bass drum, claps and hats shaped electro, hip hop, house and pop, and the term “808s” became a universal production reference.