Roland Jupiter-6
The Roland Jupiter-6 is the little brother of the Roland Jupiter-8. Released 3 years after the Jupiter-8, the Jupiter-6 came out just in time for Midi in 1983. However, when it comes to Midi, good things come to those that wait, as the Jupiter-6's Midi is very limited compared to later Midi instruments. The programming is very flexible with two sync-able and stable VCO's, two ADSR envelopes, very capable modulation section with a sample-and-hold style random LFO, and the always popular (for good reason) multi-mode filter as among standout programming features. Other features include a balanced XLR output in addition to the unbalanced 1/4" output, an arpeggiator, a splitable and comfortable feeling keyboard, unison and solo modes as well as two poly modes, auto-tune button, a generious amount of controller inputs, pitch level and a big white button to induce modulation.
Construction of the Jupiter-6 is very solid with alot of metal. The keyboard feels well constructed as do all buttons (there's lots of them). The sliders and pots are it's only short comings on quality, as they have plastic caps and are prone to damage. Most Jupiter-6s have excellent reliability ratings and are considered to be very dependable.
Average Advertised Price: Normal prices for the Jupiter-6 fall between
the $700 to $1000 range.
Jetboy's Humble Opinion Of Worth: It varies...
Jetboy's Review: The Jupiter-6 is a personal favorite of mine - I've owned a total of 3 in the last 10 years. The sounds are it's main strength, being able to produce a huge variety of them. It can sound warm and friendly to bitter and aggressive and everything inbetween. Also, it is beautiful to behold, as many Rolands of this era contain brilliant splashes of color and sleek, stylish and well constructed frames. Also, what gadgit-happy hands could resist all those buttons, sliders and knobs.
Rik Shannon at Bratman@pacbell.net delights us with his dancing dialogue: If the ARP Oddssey could have made it to the 80's, it would have been the JP-6. With all the sync. osc., sweep and cross-modulate functions, S&H, and filter sections; I can re-create many classic Oddssey patches, but with 6 (FAT)voices. (Classic APR sound example: Remember "Let's Go" by The Cars, with the classics ARP opening line {where osc2 sweeps osc1 which is locked in sync, as the ADSR combs across the osc2's pitch. Bahwow!} I feel VERY lucky to find a Jup-6 in ultra-mint cond. and I use it all the time. It's a great writing tool with it's arpeggiator, and very advanced programable split keyboard functions. A midi update (I have the latest Roland Version) by a 3rd party would be great. If any one is expanding this jewels midi capabilities please let me know! (ps: fun site) www.bratman.com
