Roland announces JUNO-D synthesiser series

Roland has announced the JUNO-D series, a new generation of synthesiser keyboards for gigging musicians and budding music creators. According to the company, the JUNO-D6, JUNO-D7, and JUNO-D8 models feature light, go-everywhere designs with pro-grade sounds, easy operation, and flexible connectivity for any scenario.

JUNO-D models feature high-quality keyboards inherited from the FANTOM-0 series instruments. The 61-note JUNO-D6 and 76-note JUNO-D7 are equipped with synth-action keyboards, while JUNO-D8 offers a piano-style experience with 88 weighted-action keys and hammer action. Other than the keyboards and physical specifications, all JUNO-D models offer identical features.

With JUNO-D, users can play in a band or craft new songs with a massive sound library, an eight-track sequencer, and versatile connections for all their gear. The instruments can be powered via AC or a standard USB-C mobile battery, making them ideal on-the-go solutions for stage playing, creating music content in a home studio, or performing on the street.

JUNO-D features the same ZEN-Core engine found in top-tier Roland synths. Over 3800 sounds are ready to explore, including acoustic and electric pianos, vintage and modern synths, organs, orchestral instruments, world sounds, and more. It’s also possible to import WAV samples to recreate specific sounds on stage or spice things up with unique tones and sound effects.

Meanwhile, Roland Cloud provides an ever-growing library of Sound Packs and Wave Expansions for further inspiration, available through membership or Lifetime Key purchases. With a free Roland Account, JUNO-D owners can access a complimentary collection of ZEN-Core Sound Packs to get started.

Players can take creative command with a generous selection of hands-on controls for real-time sound adjustment. Dedicated buttons offer direct access to 16 sound categories, while Dual, Split, and Super Layer functions are available to combine tones or assign different parts to the left and right hands. With Favourites, the user can quickly recall tailor-made sounds for every song on the setlist.

JUNO-D also provides tools for developing musical ideas and playing with backing tracks. There’s an eight-track sequencer with TR-REC step input and real-time recording options, plus eight phrase pads to trigger rhythm patterns or mute tracks to shape arrangements on the fly. Arpeggiator and chord memory functions are easily accessible to generate even more creative possibilities. Players can add vocals to their performances using the built-in mic input and professional effects, including compression, EQ, reverb, and noise suppression. Auto pitch and vocoder effects are also available to add the modern colours heard in current pop music.

The integrated audio/MIDI USB-C interface provides class-compliant support for a driverless connection to mobile devices and computers. Users can create and perform with their favourite music production software and infuse livestreams and music videos with direct sound.

Each JUNO-D model has balanced stereo audio outputs to connect with studio speakers, a stage amp, or a house PA, plus a headphone jack for quiet practice and developing musical ideas. It’s also possible to play backing tracks and songs through the JUNO-D system from a smartphone or computer via USB-C or a flash drive connected to the dedicated USB memory port.

The Roland JUNO-D6, JUNO-D7, and JUNO-D8 are now available in the US for $899.99, $1,149.99, and $1,299.99 respectively.