Roland Fantom 8 EX - Used  

 

The new Roland FANTOM-8 EX is a software-based upgrade of the highly popular FANTOM-8. This workstation adds a number of highly requested sound engines and enhances many of the traditional sounds and settings. For those yet to explore the world of Roland sounds and effects, the new FANTOM-EX is an excellent synthesizer that raises the bar for the rest of the market.

 

The Roland FANTOM is the flagship workstation synthesiser from the renowned Japanese brand with a legendary history in synthesizers. That heritage is clearly reflected in the FANTOM. With more than 7,000 sounds, an extensive range of effects and a wide array of features, it offers a complete solution for both amateur and professional users. The FANTOM is known for its user-friendly interface and exceptionally strong analogue and acoustic sounds. Looking for an all-in-one keyboard instrument for stage or studio use? Then the Roland FANTOM-8 EX is certainly worth considering. This model features 88 weighted keys, and is also available in 76- and 61-key versions.

 

The Roland FANTOM-EX is a software-based upgrade of earlier FANTOM models. This means that the acclaimed hardware remains unchanged, apart from the EX emblem beneath the logo. Roland had no reason to alter the FANTOM’s hardware. Its robust metal construction makes the instrument extremely durable, ideal for touring musicians. The combination of intuitive controls and a clear touchscreen LCD display proved to be an excellent choice from the very first generation. The 16 RGB pads, along with line inputs and USB stick compatibility, also make it a highly capable sampler. The hardware of the Roland FANTOM was a success from day one, and the FANTOM EX continues that legacy.

 

The real upgrade in the Roland FANTOM-8 EX lies in its sound engines, and this is far from a minor update. Roland has fully integrated its own digital engines from the Jupiter-8, JX-3P, JD-800, SH-101 and N/Zyme into the new FANTOM-EX. Whereas previously you could only use and adjust presets, these legendary synthesizers are now fully accessible within the FANTOM—ideal for production and composition.

 

Roland has also updated its existing sound engines. The renowned SuperNATURAL engine, responsible for sounds such as the V-Piano, now includes a range of new high-quality sounds. These include the German Grand sound recently introduced on the RD-2000, along with many more. The tonewheel organ engine has been replaced with that of the Roland VK series, resulting in more realistic Hammond B3 and similar sounds. Finally, the FANTOM-EX features a completely new reverb engine, including shimmer and modulation reverb. In short, a substantial internal upgrade.