Roland JX-03 Synthesizer Module

Re-creation of a Classic Roland Synth

The Roland JX-03 gives you the sound and control of the company's classic JX-3P synthesizer in a compact module with battery operation and a built-in speaker, so you can be creative anywhere. A member of Roland's limited-edition Boutique range, this little 4-voice powerhouse retains the distinctive sonic character, feel, and user interface of the JX-3P. As did its progenitor, the JX-03 offers immediate push-button access to presets, and for instant sound sculpting, the front panel has all 24 knobs from the original PG-200 controller. Also onboard the Roland JX-03 are new waveforms and cross-modulation options, as well as an expanded range for its two digitally controlled oscillators.

Related Videos: JX-03 Synthesizer Module

• Classic JX-3P sound with PG-200 control
• New sound-sculpting options
• 16-step sequencer helps you sketch out ideas

Launched in 1983, the JX-3P remains somewhat of a hidden gem in the vintage-synth pantheon. If you were looking for instant access to huge, stable Roland sounds, it obliged with an easy-to-use, button-driven interface in lieu of the knob-and-slider-festooned top panel sported by many of its contemporaries. Attach the optional PG-200 controller, though, and you could tap into the true power of the JX-3P's highly programmable synth engine. Today's JX-03 module gives you the panel layout of the PG-200 (including all 24 knobs) for instant, direct access to the flexible synth architecture that lurks beneath the bonnet of the Roland JX-03.

As they did with other members of the Boutique series, Roland added in subtle improvements that weren't found on the original models. The JX-03 delivers additional waveforms and extended range for both DCOs, as well as bonus waveforms for the LFO. The second DCO also has extra cross-modulation options. To the never-ending delight of Sweetwater synth geeks, these new enhancements further expand the sound-creation capability of the battle-tested JX engine.

The 16-step sequencer onboard the Roland JX-03 is a veritable scratchpad that lets you sketch out new ideas without a ton of gear; you can even use it without a keyboard. With no keyboard connected, the JX-03's ribbon controllers let you preview a sound - an easy way to program patches quickly. If you need keyboard input, however, the optional 25-note, velocity-sensitive K-25m is an ideal solution. Simply dock the JX-03 in the keyboard, and you can tilt the module for convenient access to all its front-panel controls.

• Uber-compact re-creation of the iconic JX-3P synthesizer
• Retains the feel, sonic character, and user interface of the original
• Front panel includes all 24 knobs from the original PG-200 controller
• Adds several updates not found on the original JX-3P, including:
  • Extra waveforms for LFO and both DCOs
  • Extended DCO range
• Chain mode allows 2 JX-03s to function as a single 8-voice module
• Highly portable for mobile music making
• High-quality construction with metal front panel
• 2 ribbon controllers for pitch bend, modulation, and patch preview
• Battery-operated (4 AA) or USB-powered
• 24-bit/44.1kHz stereo In/Out USB audio interface
• Onboard .5-watt mini-speaker for immediate aural gratification
• Compatible with optional K-25m mini keyboard