Here’s why Roland’s new FANTOM could be the only synth you need
The next-gen keyboard workstation that does it all
With so many synthesizers on the market, finding the right one isn’t easy. Different models have different capabilities, and appeal to different kinds of user. However, there’s also a synth that can do everything: Roland’s FANTOM.
Designed for electronic music production, performance, sound design and more, the latest version of the FANTOM is a cutting-edge all-rounder that will quickly become your go-to instrument. Central to this is the new modeless design; you don’t need to worry about defining how you want to work, as all features are available whenever you need them.
And then, of course, there are the sounds. You get all the electronic, acoustic and hybrid tones that you’ll need. Roland’s stunningly authentic V-Piano technology is included, and you can add more sounds as you need them.
Power is nothing without control, of course, and FANTOM gives it to you in spades. This starts with the keyboard, which is Roland’s best ever, and continues with an intuitive selection of knobs and sliders that’ll encourage you to get hands-on. Oh, and did we mention that there’s a touchscreen colour interface, too?
When it comes to recording, you’re spoilt for choice. There are RGB pads for beatmakers, alongside a classic TR-REC-style pattern sequencer that takes inspiration from Roland’s famous drum machines. You can, of course, record in real-time, too, while there’s a piano roll for editing and a grid for recording and launching clips.
The FANTOM works great on its own, then, but it can also sit at the heart of a wider setup. Hook it up to a computer and you can use the touchscreen and other controls to take charge of the likes of Apple’s Logic Pro DAW and MainStage performance software, and thanks to the dual CV/Gate outputs, modular and analogue synths are invited to the party, too.
So, whether you’re songwriting, gigging or just need a great-sounding synth, FANTOM is there for you. It comes in three sizes - FANTOM 6 (61-key), 7 (76-key) and 8 (88-key) - and is available now. Find out more on the Roland website.
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