NAMM 2016: Music On The Move With The Roland A-01

US Pocket MIDI Controller with it's own sound generator, step sequencer and speaker 20/01/16

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Roland tells us that their new A-01 is a flexible MIDI controller and sound generator for music production on the move. They say that, offering control over MIDI and CV/Gate-equipped analog gear, an onboard tone generator and step sequencer, the A-01 delivers in every music-making scenario, especially when paired with the optional Roland K-25m keyboard. The company believes that the A0-1's compact size, built-in speaker and battery/USB power make it the most portable unit in its class. Here's the full details in Roland's own words...

The A-01 is a truly open-ended controller module, with multiple connectivity options including three types of MIDI applications. The standard MIDI IN/OUT is joined by a USB MIDI jack for use with Mac/PC-based DAW software, while wireless MIDI (via Bluetooth LE) allows production work on a Mac, PC, tablet or smartphone. The A-01's CV/GATE OUT also supports vintage analog gear including modular synths.

Beyond its role as a MIDI controller, the A-01 also features an internal 8-bit CPU sound generator designed by the engineer responsible for some of Roland's most legendary vintage synths. A 16-step sequencer is also included for sparking ambitious musical ideas, either via the internal synth engine or triggering external instruments. Echoing the concept of the Roland Boutique range, the A-01 module can also be docked into the Roland K-25m keyboard unit, whose 25 velocity-sensitive keys give real-time control over internal and outboard gear, in a package that feels familiar and satisfying to musicians.

The A-01's intuitive operation makes it ideal for modern music production workflows. Assignable dials provide comprehensive control options over external gear and the internal sound generator, while a 192 x 40mm graphic LCD screen clearly displays key information including the shape of the output waveform. The versatile dual ribbon controllers are assignable to pitch bend, modulation, sound preview and more.

Designed for modern musicians on the move, the A-01 places all these features into an ultra-compact metal unit measuring roughly 2" H x 12" W x 5" D, weighing 950 grams and powered by either rechargeable/alkaline batteries (4x AA) or USB power. For added flexibility, audio playback is possible either through the A-01's built-in single 0.5W mini-speaker or via headphones.

Features:

Ultra-compact controller and sound generator
Highly portable for mobile music making
High-quality construction with metal front panel
Dual assignable ribbon controls for pitch bend, modulation, sound preview, CC, and more
MIDI over Bluetooth®
CV/GATE outputs for legacy analog/modular synthesizers
Battery-operated (4 x AA) or USB bus-powered
192x40 graphic LCD screen
Built-in 0.5 W mini-speaker for real-time sounds
Compatible with optional Roland K-25m mini-keyboard
Bundled package with K-25m keyboard dock (A-01K) is also available