D-550-X

Return to a Legend: D-550-X Plugin

In the world of music technology, there are instruments that have gained the status of true legends. Among them, the digital synthesizer Roland D-50, or rather its studio rack version – Roland D-550, holds a prominent place. This instrument revolutionized the 80s thanks to its innovative LA Synthesis (Linear Arithmetic) technology, which combined short samples with synthesized sustains. This approach allowed for the creation of unique, atmospheric timbres that quickly found their place in recording studios. The sound of the D-550 can be heard in numerous famous compositions of pop, synth-pop, and new wave genres. Its “glassy” pads, ringing bells, and characteristic basses are still a source of inspiration.

D-550-X from 12bitz MPC: Legendary Sound in Your DAW

Getting access to the original Roland D-550 equipment can be challenging. Fortunately, there are modern solutions that allow you to integrate this vintage sound into Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs). One such solution is the D-550-X plugin from 12bitz MPC developers.

D-550-X is a high-quality sample library created based on carefully recorded sounds from the original Roland D-550 using the Akai MPC One device. This technological partnership has allowed for the preservation of the authenticity of the original timbres, adding the warmth characteristic of Akai equipment.

The library covers almost all of the factory presets that made the D-50/D-550 so popular. Each sound was recorded with attention to detail.

Key Features and Content of the D-550-X Library:

D-550-X is a full-fledged virtual instrument library, ready to use in your DAW.

  • Extensive set of presets: 52 ready-made presets in .xpm format for quick start.
  • Large-scale sampling: 2099 individual WAV samples for high detail.
  • Range coverage: Samples from C1 to C7 cover a significant musical range.
  • Pitch accuracy: Sampling at intervals of every 3 semitones for smooth melody playback.
  • Dynamic response: Up to 3 layers of dynamics (velocity layers) for expressive performance.
  • Total size: 2.2 GB of disk space.

Compatibility and Application:

The D-550-X plugin is compatible with Windows (64-bit versions) and macOS. It can be used in any DAW that supports the corresponding plugin formats.

D-550-X will be a valuable tool for musicians, sound designers, and producers who seek to integrate classic digital synthesizer timbres of the 80s into their modern projects. It is ideal for creating retro-wave, synth-pop, ambient, and for adding unique textures.

Discover the magic of the Roland D-550 sound with the D-550-X plugin from 12bitz MPC!