The SH-2 is one of Rolands' early synthesizers. It is very simple in design, look and function. It sounds much like the SH-101 synth, including the typical SH-style sub-oscillator. But the SH-2 employed 2 oscillators for a much fatter sound. It has the typical Roland SH sound - it's a monophonic bass synth that's flexible enough to provoke punchy analog basses, leads and squelchy sounds. The oscillators can be de-tuned as well, another feature the popular SH-101 lacks. But it isn't very pretty to look at as it shares the same design and layout as the SH09. Still it makes a simple and easily programmable mono-synth that can be used in place of the more common SH-101. However the SH-2 is harder to find and so it usually has a higher price than other SH-type synthesizers from Roland. It has been used by Duran Duran, Groove Corporation, Eat Static, OMD, Men Without Hats, and the Eurythmics.

Reed

February 15, 2012 @ 7:18 pm

I'd trade my rhodes 73 mk1, plus or minus some cash. email me if you're interested: reed@4st8.com

Smoinync

October 21, 2011 @ 11:35 pm

No matter what they say about how awesome sh2 is compared to 101, i found myself often go for 101. Sh2 may be great but sh101 is more reliable.

gooch

July 30, 2011 @ 2:56 am

I just found one for $125 in an Op shop in Greensborough - Melbourne. Am absolutely loving it. Just what I've been after for smooth phat analogue bass grooves.

magenticka

May 14, 2011 @ 12:59 pm

The oscillators in this thing are what makes it shine. This is pure vintage, analogue, discreet circuitry. I currently own one in mint condition. The discreet sound in this is so full, lush, rich, and fat. Mixing two square waves with sub, has to be some of the biggest best bass I have ever heard from a synth.

median

March 11, 2011 @ 6:17 am

Love the SH-2 but it doesn't quite compare to the SH-101 if you need THAT sound/speed/grit/punch. This is more of typical older/vintage synth with good bass end that happens to be mono. It's more advanced and can do some lovely sounds (through effects). There is a reason the 101 is overall more sought after though and it's because of the things only the 101 can do, and that are needed/required for that certain sound of bass/squelch etc. They (and the 09) can all sound similar but the 101 is the complete package!

I'd love another SH-2 to go with my 101, they can co-exist.

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