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I have owned a total of 4 since this synth came out in 98, and recommend this synth to anyone, especially to the beginner! It is definately the best synth/workstation I own, quite capable of emulating any vintage synth out there! Great pattern based sequencer, great presets, but creating new patches is what I think this synth is all about. You have to know a little programing, what the little knobs mean and your waves, but this synth will get you well on your way to learning. Very easy to use interface, little known bugs, but make sure to get the manual to help guide you. Roland doesn't offer online manuals, so you have to order one for $15. However, there are quite a few JX-305 sites and forums online to help you out. There are some things you should know about this synth. First of all, like said, I owned 4! Why? I love this synth, but they do not last long. Most of the synths out there, well all 4 that I owned have the dreaded LCD missing pixels disease. This is a common problem in both the MC-505 and JX-305 due to band engineering on Roland's part. They have a cheap plastic casing, they are not built like tanks and are very fragile. Some of them go out of tune. Not necessary a problem, they fall out of the set 440 master tune, but you can tune it easily by adjusting the mastertune. I gig alot and this is my main synth so that is probably why they dont last long for me. If you can find one under $450, you got yourself a deal! The LCD disease is not a big problem, you can change patterns, prests, and songs, but the fact that some pixels are missing is just really annoying. Roland service centers fix this for about $25-50 + parts, not really an expensive fix. Buy this synth if you can find one under $450. Before you buy, ask the owner about the LCD though.
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