Roland A-01 Synth / MIDI Controller Now Available For €98 From Thomann

We'll warn you now. The Roland A-01 MIDI controller / 8-bit synth, normally retailing for around €199-€249 EUR has been discounted by Thomann down to a tidy €98. This is a limited quantity offer.

It's quite possible the giant European music retailer wants to clear stock before the upcoming new Roland SE-02 analog synth release. Another possibility is the A-01 hasn't sold as well as expected. Perhaps it's been a bit misunderstood? This module is a sequencer, synthesizer, and CV/Gate output machine with a built-in speaker, battery power and can fit onto the Boutique keyboard.

Sara Simms explains in our review of the A-01 just how flexible and powerful it is:

"One of the strengths of the Roland A-01 is the fact that it's an extremely flexible unit. Whether its a mobile controller, or portable synthesizer you're looking for, the A-01 is versatile enough to suit many musicians' needs. I personally liked the minimal controls on the unit, as creativity can sometimes be maximized by working with instruments that offer control over a few adjustable parameters. I see the A-01 as a useful tool for live performances, and in controller mode could be used to control larger synthesizers and or even software. Portable and lightweight, the A-01 can be easily be taken on the road to jam and recording sessions. If you're looking to get ideas started quickly, the fact that the instrument can be operated via battery power and has its own internal speakers makes the A-01 fun to use anywhere.

"I think that hands down, the best features on A-01 are the sequencer mode and the fact that it offers CV/Gate Outputs, allowing connectivity with the modular world. This intriguing controller/8-bit synthesizer/sequencer has much to offer and is a powerful unit in a small package. Best when paired with the Roland K-25m keyboard, the A-01 will have you inspired and writing new melodies in no time. The versatility the A-01 offers would make the A-01 a new favourite instrument/controller in any musician's arsenal."

It's a sequencer and 8-bit synth, and for €98 it's a steal!

A-01 Features