Description

Roland System-100M 172 Phase Shifter Delay in clean shape with original box and manual, $3999!

Overview: The Roland System-100M 172 module is part of the System-100M modular synthesizer series released in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The System-100M is renowned for its modular design, allowing musicians to customize their synthesizer setup with various modules to create a versatile and powerful analog synthesis environment. The 172 module is particularly known for its phase shifter, audio delay, gate delay, and LFO functionalities.

Key Features:

  • Phase Shifter:
    • Stages: 5-stage phase shifter
    • Controls: Rate, depth, and manual controls for precise manipulation of the phase-shifting effect
    • Inputs/Outputs: CV input for external control, audio input, and audio output
  • Audio Delay:
    • Delay Time: Adjustable delay time with a range suitable for creating echo and slapback effects
    • Feedback: Control for the amount of feedback, allowing for longer, more complex delay trails
    • Inputs/Outputs: Audio input, audio output, and feedback loop
  • Gate Delay:
    • Controls: Delay time and gate length controls for adjusting the timing of gate signals
    • Inputs/Outputs: Gate input and delayed gate output
  • LFO (Low-Frequency Oscillator):
    • Waveforms: Multiple waveforms available (sine, triangle, square)
    • Rate: Adjustable rate control for setting the speed of the LFO
    • Outputs: Multiple CV outputs for modulation purposes

Sound Characteristics:

  • Phase Shifter: Adds movement and depth to sounds by modulating the phase of the audio signal, suitable for creating swirling, whooshing effects
  • Audio Delay: Provides echo and delay effects, adding space and depth to the sound
  • Gate Delay: Allows for precise timing adjustments of gate signals, useful in rhythmically complex patches
  • LFO: Versatile modulation source for adding vibrato, tremolo, and other time-based effects to the sound

Applications:

  • Genres: Ideal for electronic music, ambient, experimental, and sound design
  • Usage: Suitable for live performances, studio recordings, and modular synthesis setups due to its versatile modulation and effects capabilities

Country of Manufacture:

  • Japan: The Roland System-100M series, including the 172 module, was manufactured in Japan, known for its high-quality construction and innovative design

Notable Features:

  • Modular Design: Easily integrated into a modular synthesizer setup, allowing for flexible and creative patching possibilities
  • High-Quality Construction: Built to last with robust components and reliable performance
  • Versatile Functionality: Combines multiple modulation and effects functions in one module, making it a powerful addition to any modular setup

Notable Users:

  • Jean-Michel Jarre – Electronic/Ambient: Renowned electronic musician Jean-Michel Jarre has used various Roland modular systems, including the System-100M, in his intricate soundscapes
  • Aphex Twin – Electronic/Experimental: Known for his innovative use of analog gear, Aphex Twin has utilized Roland modular equipment in his experimental compositions
  • Hans Zimmer – Film Scoring: Esteemed film composer Hans Zimmer has been known to use Roland modular synthesizers, including the System-100M, in his complex and textured scores

The Roland System-100M 172 module is a versatile and powerful component of the System-100M modular synthesizer series. With its combination of phase shifter, audio delay, gate delay, and LFO functionalities, it offers a wide range of sound manipulation possibilities. Suitable for electronic music, ambient, and experimental genres, this module provides high-quality modulation and effects capabilities, making it an invaluable addition to any modular synthesizer setup. Whether used in live performances or studio recordings, the 172 module delivers the performance and reliability expected from a high-quality Roland instrument.