The world of virtual music instruments is constantly being updated with new developments that try to recreate the magic of classic analog equipment. The Rolend SH-57 plugin from developer KBplugs is just such an attempt to immerse modern musicians in the sound of legendary synthesizers of the past, but with its own unique perspective.
What is Rolend SH-57?
Rolend SH-57 is a software VST instrument created as an emulation of two iconic analog synthesizers from Roland: SH-5 and SH-7. These instruments played an important role in the formation of electronic music, offering a rich, warm and characteristic sound that is still valued by producers around the world.
Developed by KBplugs, Rolend SH-57 does not aim to be an exact digital copy of its hardware predecessors. Instead, it takes the original circuitry as a basis, drawing inspiration from it to create a new instrument that has its own sound signature.
Inspired by the classics: Roland SH-5 and SH-7
Roland SH series synthesizers (especially SH-5 and SH-7) are known for their simplicity, but at the same time, the depth of their capabilities. They were the favorite instruments of many musicians thanks to their fat basses, piercing leads and unique sound shaping capabilities. The SH-5, for example, had an advanced filter, and the SH-7 had interesting modulation capabilities.
Rolend SH-57 pays tribute to these instruments, trying to convey the spirit of the analog synthesis era, but without being limited only to historical accuracy. This makes it not just “another emulation”, but an independent instrument with the potential for a new sound.
Not an exact copy, but a new vision
An important feature of Rolend SH-57, which the developer directly states, is the lack of a desire for complete sound identity with the originals. The plugin “is inspired by real circuits”, but does not try to sound “exactly like hardware synthesizers”. This approach gives the developer freedom for experimentation and the introduction of their own ideas, which can lead to the creation of unique timbres that cannot be obtained on the original equipment.
This approach can be especially interesting for musicians and sound designers who are looking not just for a copy of a vintage sound, but something new, based on time-tested principles of analog synthesis.
Features and capabilities of Rolend SH-57
One of the key features of Rolend SH-57, which also follows the philosophy of many classic analog synthesizers, is the absence of built-in presets. As with the “real” SH-5/SH-7, the user is invited to create each sound themselves, “from scratch”.
- Full freedom of sound design: The absence of presets means that you fully control every aspect of the sound. This requires a deeper understanding of synthesis, but rewards unique and personalized timbres.
- Learning synthesis: Working with such a plugin is a great opportunity to deepen your knowledge of subtractive synthesis by experimenting with oscillators, filters, envelopes and modulations.
- Direct access to parameters: The plugin’s interface, probably (although not specified in the description, is typical for emulations) provides direct access to all key synthesis parameters, allowing you to quickly and intuitively shape the sound.
Sound potential
The inspiration of the SH-series synthesizers suggests that Rolend SH-57 has the potential to create a wide range of sounds characteristic of classic analog synthesis:
- Fat bass lines: A classic feature of analog mono-synths.
- Piercing leads: Perfect for melodies and solo parts.
- Warm pads: Although the originals are monophonic, the emulation may have polyphonic capabilities (this is not specified, but possible).
- Effects and textures: Modulation and filtering capabilities allow you to create unique sound effects and background textures.
Since the plugin does not strive for complete identity, it can offer its own unexpected sound possibilities, which makes it a valuable tool for those who are looking for originality in their sound.
Who is Rolend SH-57 for?
This plugin will be interesting for a wide range of musicians and sound enthusiasts:
- Electronic music producers: Especially those genres where classic analog sound is valued (techno, house, electro, retrowave, etc.).
- Sound designers: Who are looking for unique timbres for their projects.
- Experimenting musicians: Those who are not afraid to spend time creating their own sound, rather than using ready-made presets.
- Vintage synthesizer fans: Who want to get access to the sound aesthetics of the Roland SH-series in a convenient VST format.
Although the plugin is only available for the Windows (Win32) platform, it can be a great addition to the arsenal of virtual instruments for users of this operating system who value classic analog sound and are ready for in-depth sound design.
Rolend SH-57 by KBplugs is more than just an emulation. It is an attempt to rethink the classics by offering musicians an instrument that is inspired by legends, but has its own heart and soul. The absence of presets stimulates creativity, and the unique sound signature makes it a valuable asset for creating original music.
