The RS-09 is an analog string and organ synthesizer (similar to the Saturn-09 which only produced an organ sound). It's old, it's cheap and they're usually worth finding! The string sound and organ sounds are nice, fatty analog sounds. The organ and string sections can be played simultaneously or individually. An ensemble/chorus effect and external sound input are welcome features. But aside from all this, there isn't much else left to this synth. A simple 2-vco architecture with simple and limited editable parameters, no patch memory and a small keyboard.

There are three versions of this unit. The one shown above is a V.3. The differences are mainly cosmetic and in the control surface; the V.3 uses touch-switches, the V.1 uses rockers and tends to be more reliable due to that. This instrument can be found for around $100, and they could add a nice flavor to any modern analog-electronic keyboard studio. It has been used by Jimi Tenor, UB40, and The Cure.

17 VISITOR COMMENTS

Mwaa

November 21, 2011 @ 12:10 pm

Jason Lytle of Grandaddy uses one of those!

Jack Floyd

June 24, 2011 @ 9:33 pm

Indeed. Fripp used a Roland RS-09 in 1981 for the Discipline Tour.

johannes

June 9, 2011 @ 1:29 am

I loved my RS-09 for its beautiful strings! But having a Juno 60 as well made me sell it off not too long ago! Strings on the Juno 60 are very similar. Oh deary but this thing was so ANALOG!!! And the fact that the Cure used one in the early 80s too was good enough for me!!! :)

Mark Bach

March 1, 2011 @ 1:26 am

It is a good look synth. I own a RS one. The front panel is metal. The sounds can be warm and fat. but not contain enough low sound. It is suitable for leading and solo.

Dante Droid 2600

February 20, 2011 @ 12:57 am

Usado tambièn por Wall Of Voodoo y Information Society!

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