Publisher: Samples From Mars
Website: samplesfrommars.com/products/sh5-from-mars
Format: KONTAKT
Quality: 24 bit 44.1 kHz stereo
Description: The top line of the revolutionary Roland SH series includes some of the most powerful synthesizers of all time: SH-101, SH1, SH-3A, SH-7… the list goes on. And while these synths all sound great, the SH-5 is undeniably a kora, with its oscillators, multi-mode filters, extensive modulation options, and brilliant mixer. In our opinion, the SH-5 is one of the most remarkable Rolandian mono synthesizers of all time.
Voice architecture and history.
Manufactured from 1976 – 1981. SH5 is similar to 100/700 modular block systems. It has analog oscillators and multi-mode filters that don’t lose bass at resonance (unlike the SH-7). There’s also a resonant band pass filter that can be used in parallel with amazing results. Throw in a white/pink noise generator, ring modulation, semi-modular LFOs, precise and weak oscillator sync, and it’s no wonder this synth can cover such a wide range of sounds! He is capable of everything from humanoid to hallucinogenic sounds. The SH-5 is Roland’s powerhouse, with unbeatable bass, gigantic leads and wild FX!
Sampling process.
When we sampled the SH5, it was in excellent condition and all of its settings were perfect. We’ve recorded many of the patches without processing, so the true character of the synth comes through in all its glory. However, in some others, we still added analog distortion, saturation, tape emulation, guitar pedals, hardware equalizers and filters. This combination of recording methods gives the instruments a wide range of sonic possibilities.
Parallel strip trick.
A resonant bandpass filter can give you a super punchy and aggressive mid-range or a shockingly deep bass boost, depending on where you set the cutoff. By sending one oscillator to a band pass filter (with resonance) and the other directly to a VCA or low pass filter, we were able to achieve the warmest yet most aggressive bass we’ve ever heard. No other synth at the time (or currently?) had this kind of processing.
