Roland SH-4d Desktop Synthesizer

The Roland SH-4d is a compact desktop synthesizer with 11 oscillator models, four independent synth parts, a dedicated rhythm part, and up to 60 voices of polyphony. A fully loaded panel with 32 knobs, four sliders, and a built-in button keyboard provides hands-on sound design without menu diving. It runs on batteries or USB-C bus power, making it equally suited for studio production and portable use.

11 Oscillator Models

The SH-4d covers a wide range of synthesis styles across 11 selectable OSC Models. The native SH-4d model builds thick analog-style tones with up to four waveforms. SH-101 and JUNO-106 models deliver authentic recreations of those classic instruments. Cross FM provides two-operator FM synthesis for crisp digital textures. Wavetable morphs through complex waveform tables. Drawing lets you design custom waveforms from scratch. Ring and Sync models produce metallic and harmonically rich tones. The Chord model creates complex chord voicings from single notes. SH-3D swaps the fourth oscillator part for a second LFO. PCM provides a large selection of sample-based sounds from Roland's library.

A dedicated Rhythm part features 49 preset kits and 64 user kit slots. Each kit offers 26 instruments with up to two layered waveforms per instrument, dedicated EQ, and full synthesis controls for building custom drum sounds from scratch.

Sequencer & Performance

The multitimbral pattern sequencer covers all five parts with 128 storable patterns. It supports real-time recording and two step-entry modes across up to 64 steps, with per-note probability, sub-steps, and flam settings. Motion recording captures knob movements for parameter automation within patterns. A 5-type arpeggiator and Visual Arpeggio add melodic movement, while D-Motion uses the unit's built-in motion sensor to create effects by physically tilting the SH-4d during performance.

Effects Processing

Each of the five parts has its own multi-effect processor (93 types), and a global Master Effect adds another layer of processing. The send effects section provides reverb (9 types), chorus (5 types), and delay (5 types). A Master EQ and compressor shape the final output.

Specifications

• Polyphony: 60 voices (varies with sound generator load)
• Parts: 4 Tone + 1 Rhythm
• OSC Models: SH-4d, SH-3D, Sync, SH-101, JUNO-106, Cross FM, Ring, Wavetable, Chord, Drawing, PCM, Rhythm
• User Memory: 256 sound patches, 128 patterns
• Sequencer: 5 parts, 64 steps, sub-steps, flam, probability, motion recording
• Effects: 5 multi-effect systems (93 types), Reverb (9), Chorus (5), Delay (5), Master Effect (93), Master EQ/Comp
• Controllers: Button keyboard, step buttons, D-Motion sensor, 32 knobs, 4 sliders
• Display: 128 x 64 dot graphic LCD
• Connections: 1/4" stereo output (L/Mono, R), 1/4" headphones, 3.5mm mix in, 3.5mm ext clock in, MIDI In/Out (5-pin DIN), USB Type-C (audio/MIDI/power)
• Power: USB-C bus power (500 mA), or 4x AA batteries (approx. 4 hrs alkaline, 5 hrs NiMH)
• Dimensions: 360 x 195 x 66 mm (14-3/16" x 7-11/16" x 2-5/8")
• Weight: 1,780 g (3 lbs 15 oz) without batteries

In the Box

• Roland SH-4d Synthesizer
• USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable
• 4x AA alkaline batteries
• Quick Start guide