Roland Corporation

The first Roland-branded products. Established in Osaka with a capital stock of 33 million yen. Sales offices open in Tokyo and Osaka.

Established in Osaka with a capital stock of 33 million yen. Sales offices open in Tokyo and Osaka.

Established : April 18, 1972

Established

Roland's first synthesizer. MEG Electronics Corporation (later BOSS Corporation), a manufacturer of effects, is established in Osaka. First participation at the NAMM Show in the USA. The Hamamatsu factory is completed. First participation at the Gakki Fair in Japan.

Roland's first synthesizer, SH-1000 Synthesizer, is released. MEG Electronics Corporation (later BOSS Corporation) is established in Osaka. Roland participates at the NAMM Show in the USA. The Hamamatsu factory is completed. Roland participates at the Gakki Fair in Japan.

The world's first electronic piano with touch-sensitive keyboard.

Pioneer of spatial effects and recognized by professional musicians as the industry standard for decades. Product Leader System is launched as an integrated system from development to production.

EP-30 Electronic Piano, the world's first electronic piano with touch-sensitive keyboard, is released. RE-201 Space Echo is launched. Product Leader System is launched as an integrated system from development to production.

Equipped with the revolutionary stereo chorus effect, these amplifiers are still used by guitarists around the world. First participation at the Frankfurt Musikmesse.

JC Series Guitar Amplifiers with stereo chorus effect are launched. Roland participates at the Frankfurt Musikmesse.

Japan's first large-scale modular synthesizer system; it was purchased by organizations such as NHK and BBC.

The first BOSS-branded effect processor. Holds the “First Synthesizer Tape Contest” for multi-track recordings of synthesizers. Sales partner is established in Australia.

SYSTEM-700 Modular Synthesizer System, Japan's first large-scale modular synthesizer, is released. CE-1 Chorus Ensemble, the first BOSS-branded effect processor, is launched. Holds the “First Synthesizer Tape Contest”. Sales partner established in Australia.

The world's first guitar synthesizer.

Roland's first microprocessor-based music sequencer was a history-making component in the electronic music genre.

The initial three models launched in the long-running BOSS compact effects series.

Fuji Roland Corporation (presently Roland Corporation) is established in Matsumoto.

GR-500 Guitar Synthesizer, the world's first guitar synthesizer, is launched. MC-8 MicroComposer, Roland's first microprocessor-based music sequencer, is released. OD-1/SP-1/PH-1 Compact Effects are launched. Fuji Roland Corporation (presently Roland Corporation) is established in Matsumoto.

The world's first microprocessor-based rhythm machines. Sales partner is established in the USA.

CR-68/CR-78 Rhythm Machine, the world's first microprocessor-based rhythm machines, are launched. Sales partner established in the USA.

Representative office is opened in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, as a base for expansion in the European market.

Representative office opened in Rotterdam, Netherlands, as a base for expansion in Europe.

This programmable rhythm machine allowed musicians to program an entire song and achieved legendary status around the world.

TR-808 Rhythm Machine, a programmable rhythm machine, is released.

A polyphonic-synthesizer masterpiece that was a touchstone for future synthesizer development. Sales partners are established in Germany, the UK, Denmark and Canada. AMDEK Corporation (presently Roland DG Corporation), a company dealing with effects kits and computer peripherals, is established in Osaka.

JUPITER-8 Synthesizer, a polyphonic synthesizer, is launched. Sales partners established in Germany, UK, Denmark, and Canada. AMDEK Corporation (presently Roland DG Corporation) is established in Osaka.

Sales partner is established in Belgium.

Sales partner established in Belgium.

The world's first MIDI sequencer.

Roland's first synthesizer with MIDI support (along with the JUPITER-6).

MSQ-700 Sequencer, the world's first MIDI sequencer, is launched. JX-3P Synthesizer, Roland's first with MIDI support, is released. Contributes to the birth of MIDI standard.

This interface for connecting a PC to a MIDI device was a history-making component in desktop music production.

MPU-401 MIDI Processing Unit, a key component for desktop music production, is launched. Roland Music School opens in Umeda, Osaka.

Roland's first electronic drum set.

Opens the Roland Music School in Shibuya, Tokyo.

α-DRUM Electronic Drums, Roland's first electronic drum set, is released. Participates in Science Expo Tsukuba ’85. Roland Music School opens in Shibuya, Tokyo.

The world's first digital piano based on digital synthesis paved the way for Roland's history-making digital-piano family.

Sales partner is established in Italy.

The Hosoe factory (present headquarters) is completed.

Production company is established in Taiwan.

RD-1000 Digital Piano, the world's first digital piano based on digital synthesis, is launched. Sales partner established in Italy. Hosoe factory completed. Production company established in Taiwan.

Roland's first fully digital synthesizer became a worldwide sensation for its stunning sound and ease of use.

Advocates “ism” as a new way of music education with electronic musical instruments.

Production company is established in Italy.

Sponsors the first New Age Contest of amateur bands nationwide and the “Exploring the Future of Music” concert.

D-50 Synthesizer, Roland's first fully digital synthesizer, is released. Roland advocates “ism” in music education. Production company established in Italy. Sponsors first New Age Contest and “Exploring the Future of Music” concert.

Roland's slogan was to “enjoy music on the PC” as a new type of hobby; it created a new market called “desktop music” (DTM).

This synthesizer with automatic accompaniment let users enjoy various music styles from around the world.

Classic-organ production company is set up in the USA.

Sales partner is established in Switzerland.

Musi-Kun Desktop Music System, Roland's slogan for enjoying music on PC, is launched. E-20 Arranger Keyboard is released. Roland Music School opens in Osaka. Sales partner established in Switzerland.

Capital stock reaches 7.6billion yen.

Roland listed in the second section of the Osaka Stock Exchange. Capital stock reaches 7.6 billion yen.

This groundbreaking system created a 3D sound space on a regular stereo device; frequently used in music and video production.

A trendsetting model of the HP series, equipped with advanced SA sound generator and newly-styled furniture-like cabinet.

Sales partner is established in Spain.

Participates in the “International Garden and Greenery Exposition” (Osaka) as a member of the Dairinkai.

Distribution center is completed in Hamamatsu.

Sales partner is established in Hungary.

Hamamatsu R&D Center is completed.

RSS Roland Sound Space, creating 3D sound on stereo devices, is launched. HP-3700 Digital Piano is released. Participates in Osaka Expo. Distribution center completed in Hamamatsu. Sales partner established in Hungary. Hamamatsu R&D Center completed.

The first unit to use the GS* format, this product became a huge hit for its high-quality tones and compact design.

*GS A specification shared among Roland products that standardizes sounds and controls via MIDI.

Sales partner is established in Brazil.

SC-55 Sound Canvas, the first to use GS format, is launched. Sales partner established in Brazil.

This instrument's expandable sound generator concept led to many other successful products.

JV-80 Synthesizer, with expandable sound generator, is released.

Headquarters is moved to Dojimahama, Kita-ku, Osaka.

Miyakoda Testing Center (Hamamatsu) is completed.

Headquarters moved to Dojimahama, Kita-ku, Osaka. Miyakoda Testing Center in Hamamatsu completed.

Roland's first series of home organs.

Roland's first video-related product allowed users to perform sophisticated video editing on their PCs.

Music ATELIER AT-70/50 Electronic Organ, Roland's first home organs, launched. Video-Kun Desktop Video, for video editing on PC, is released. Producer System launched.

The world's first modeling guitar system let players create a wide variety of tones on a single guitar.

VG-8 V-Guitar System, the world's first modeling guitar system, is launched.

A revolutionary product that provided pro-quality recording and CD production; this became a global sensation from the moment it was released.

This was Roland's first entry into the club and DJ scene; it became a new hit in the world of dance music.

Becomes the first musical instrument manufacturer in Japan to be certified for ISO9002, an international standard for quality assurance.

VS-880 Digital Studio Workstation, providing pro-quality recording, is released. MC-303 Groove Box, Roland's entry into dance music, is launched. Roland certified for ISO9002.

Equipped with mesh heads and COSM technology, these drums were highly praised for their natural feel, tone, expression, and ease of use.

Sales partner is established in Taiwan.

Miyakoda factory (Hamamatsu) is completed.

Sales partner is established in France.

V-Drums TD-10K Electronic Drums, with mesh heads and COSM technology, is launched. Sales partner established in Taiwan. Miyakoda factory completed. Sales partner established in France.

The world's first USB audio interface allowed for recording and playback of high-fidelity digital audio with a PC; this type of interface took root as an industry standard.

Sales partner is established in Portugal.

Listed in the second section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

UA-100 USB Audio Interface, industry-standard for high-fidelity digital audio, is launched. Sales partner established in Portugal. Listed on Tokyo Stock Exchange.

The world's first USB-enabled MIDI sound source became the standard in DTM production.

Listed in the first sections of the Tokyo Stock Exchange and Osaka Stock Exchange.

SC-8850 Sound Module, the first USB-enabled MIDI sound source, is launched. Listed on Tokyo and Osaka Stock Exchanges.

The first unit equipped with “VariPhrase,” a groundbreaking technology for independently controlling the three elements of sound in real time.

VP-9000 VariPhrase Processor, with real-time control of sound elements, is released.

Designed specially for video editing, the system let users achieve high-quality video production.

The standard in digital stage pianos, highly regarded for its superb action and authentic sound.

Sales partner is established in Poland.

Hamamatsu R&D Center is expanded.

Production company is established in China.

Roland Music Studios Corporation (presently Roland Music School) launches music schools nationwide.

DV-7 Digital Video Workstation for high-quality video production is launched. RD-700 Digital Piano, a standard stage piano, is released. Sales partner established in Poland. Hamamatsu R&D Center expanded. Production company established in China. Roland Music Studios launches music schools nationwide.

The world's first modeling bass let bassists create a wide variety of tones on a single bass.

This powerful video mixer offered rich functionality in a compact body.

Roland Museum is completed at the Hamamatsu R&D.

The Planet program is launched in the UK.

V-Bass System, modeling bass, is launched. V-4 Video Mixer is released. Roland Museum completed at Hamamatsu R&D. UK program “Planet” launched.

Equipped with an advanced VariPhrase and COSM engine, this synthesizer was capable of creating completely new sounds.

This battery-powered guitar amp combines COSM tones and DSP effects in an ultra-small cabinet.

Distribution company is established in China.

V-Synth Synthesizer, with VariPhrase and COSM engine, is launched. Micro CUBE Guitar Amplifier is released. Distribution company established in China.

The world's first workstation synthesizer with a color LCD.

The world's first electronic accordion equipped with a modeling sound generator.

Sales partners in Europe are reorganized; France and Belgium are consolidated.

Fantom-X Synthesizer, the first workstation with color LCD, is launched. V-Accordion Digital Accordion is released. European sales partners reorganized. Sales in Spain and Portugal merged. Sales partner established in Malaysia. Roland Planet program begins nationwide in Japan.

This unit allowed users to create a variety of videos and visual effects in an instant and present them in real-time.

A compact sampler with pads for instant playback.

Headquarters is moved to Hosoe-cho, Hamamatsu (presently Hosoecho, Kita-ku, Hamamatsu).

Sales partner of professional audio and video equipment is established in the USA.

CG-8 Visual Synthesizer for real-time video effects is launched. SP-404 Sampler is released. Headquarters moved to Hosoe-cho, Hamamatsu. US professional audio/video sales partner established.

This product created a new market for handheld linear PCM recorders and became a worldwide hit.

Nationwide implementation of the Roland Foresta program begins in Japan.

R-09 Portable Recorder, creating new market for handheld PCM recorders, is launched. Roland Foresta program begins in Japan.

With full digital processing based on Roland's proprietary REAC* technology, this system provided both “comfort” and “high-quality” digital audio transfer for mixing at concerts and other events. *REAC — Roland Ethernet Audio Communication.

A simple and stylish electronic drum kit that allows for easy play at home.

Sales partner is established in China.

V-Mixing System digital mixing system based on REAC technology is launched. V-Drums Lite HD-1 Electronic Drums is released. Sales partner established in China.

Digital Harpsichord Encased in a beautiful cabinet, this digital harpsichord delivers authentic tone infused with sophisticated control and expression—a brilliant rebirth of the harpsichord in the modern age.

Acquires additional shares in a US music-production software-development company; the company becomes a part of the Roland group.

Nationwide implementation of the Planet X program begins in Japan.

C-30 Digital Harpsichord, with authentic tone, is launched. Roland acquires additional shares in US music software company. Nationwide Roland Planet program begins in Japan.

Equipped with a new sound generator that digitally reproduces the sound-generating elements of a piano, this revolutionary digital piano expands the possibilities of piano sound and performance.

An electronic organ that is compact yet allows you to enjoy the solemn echoes and performances of a full-fledged pipe organ at home.

An audio player for guitarists that allows them to play along with favorite songs.

Sales partner is established in Russia.

V-Piano Digital Piano, with new sound generator, is launched. C-330 Classic Organ is released. JS-8 Audio Player with Guitar Effects is launched. Sales partner established in Russia.

Equipped with the SuperNATURAL piano sound source to realize rich and natural tone change and archieve sound and expression power.

HP307 Digital Piano, with SuperNATURAL sound, is launched.

The flagship model of Roland's digital piano line incorporates the superb expressive power of the V-Piano sound engine.

The flagship model of Roland synthesizers that delivers unprecedented natural and rich performance expressions in live performances with its exclusively developed SuperNATURAL tones.

This tool let users achieve hi-vision video production easily.

Europe central warehouse is started operation.

V-Piano Grand Digital Piano is launched. JUPITER-80 Synthesizer is released. Video Canvas DV-7G Video Editor is launched. Europe warehouse starts operation.

This flagship sound module offers all of Roland's sound libraries combined within a single unit.

INTEGRA-7 Sound Module, combining Roland's sound libraries, is launched.

A pro-quality, all-in-one digital mixing console with iPad* control capability.

M-200i Live Mixing Console with iPad control is launched. TE-2/MO-2/DA-2 Compact Pedals are released.

A synthesizer workstation with effortless real-time power, ultra-fast workflow, and maximum versatility

A new series of products designed to meet the evolving needs of today's electronic musicians. AIRA brings genre-defining sounds and modern performance features to a new generation.

Delisted from the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

Regional headquarters in Europe is established in UK.

Production company is established in Malaysia.

FA-08 Synthesizer, a versatile workstation, is launched. AIRA series (VT-3, TB-3, TR-8) is introduced. Tokyo Stock Exchange listing is delisted. European headquarters established in UK. Production in Malaysia begins.

Compact and powerful Interactive Analog/Digital crossover synthesizer with onboard pattern sequencer and vocal FX

Roland VS, joint venture with Virtual Sonics, is established.

Roland DG Corportion is removed from list of group companies.

JD-Xi Synthesizer, a crossover synth, is launched. Roland VS joint venture with Virtual Sonics established. Roland DG Corporation removed from group companies.

The world's first hybrid cajon with built-in electronic sounds

All-new digital wind instrument with traditional sax fingering and onboard supernatural sounds

Acquired majority stake in V-MODA, manufacturer of headphones and audio devices.

ELCajon EC-10, the world's first hybrid cajon, is launched. Aerophone AE-10 Digital Wind Instrument is released. Roland acquires majority stake in V-MODA.

Compact audio mixer for smartphone video production that makes it simple to record high-quality audio

These headphones produce audio that can please even the most discerning sound engineer, with a clean, deep bass, vivid mids, and a wide 3D soundstage.

Launched the Roland Cloud service, a cloud-based platform offering high-quality plug-in synthesizers and software for music production.

MI Services Malaysia is established as the hub of global commercial and goods flow/SCM.

GO:MIXER Audio Mixer for Smartphones is launched. V-MODA Crossfade II Wireless headphones are released. Roland Cloud service is launched. MI Services Malaysia established.

The world's first totally wireless guitar amplifier with newly developed BOSS technology

An electronic piano with a completely renewed sound, keyboard, and sound system gives players the realism of playing in a concert hall. It was awarded Good Design Award 2018, Red Dot Product Design Award 2019 and 2019 iF Design Award.

BOSS Corporation is merged into Roland.

Sales partner is established in Mexico.

KATANA-AIR Wireless Guitar Amplifier is launched. LX708 Digital Piano, awarded design awards, is released. BOSS Corporation merges into Roland. Sales partner established in Mexico.

An AV mixer that makes it easier than ever before to broadcast live.

This flagship model Roland synthesizer is equipped with the latest "ZEN-Core" sound engine as well as numerous vintage synthesizer sounds in one

An intuitive and inspiring music creation app that runs cross-platform allowing anyone to be creative

Professional studio headphones that deliver crystalline audio so clear and neutral that subtle nuances and flaws are easily distinguished

Over-ear guitar sound system that combines BOSS's unique wireless technology with 3D ambience and dynamic sound localization

VR-1HD AV Streaming Mixer is launched. JUPITER-Xm Synthesizer with ZEN-Core engine is released. Zenbeats Music Creation App is launched. V-MODA M-200 Studio Headphones are released. WAZA-AIR Wireless Guitar System is launched.

A unique tool for streaming that allows streamers to enhance and manage live content online while remaining engaged with their audience

An expandable plug-in synthsizer of the revolutionary ZEN-Core Synthesis System

A portable electronic version of the traditional Japanese Taiko drum with Roland's leading digital percussion technology

Re-listed in the first section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

GO:LIVECAST Livestreaming Studio for Smartphones is launched. ZENOLOGY Software Synthesizer is released. TAIKO-1 Electronic Taiko Percussion is launched.

Compact home upright piano with modern styling. It was awarded Red Dot Product Design Award 2021.

Flagship V-Drums Acoustic Design kit with the next-generation TD-50X sound module, advanced digital snare and pads

Portable hybrid event switcher with comprehensive features and connectivity

Premium guitar with advanced BOSS synthesizer technologies for unlimited musical expression

A powerful and easy-to-use multitrack recording app for mobile musicians

F701 Digital Piano, awarded Red Dot, is launched. V-Drums VAD706 is released. V-160HD Streaming Video Switcher is launched. EURUS GS-1 Electronic Guitar is released. Zentracker Audio Recording App is launched.

Roland at 50, a special website commemorating the 50th anniversary of its founding, has been released.

Pedals that thoroughly analyzes and reproduces the Space Echo RE-201 released in 1974, which is still loved by many musicians.

Fun, pocket-sized instruments that offer authentic electronic music with iconic Roland sound that has been loved for years.

Opened its first direct store, Roland Store London.

Acquired all stake of Drum Workshop, Inc., manufacturer of acoustic drums and percussion.

Roland at 50 website is released. RE-202/RE-2 Space Echo pedals are launched. AIRA Compact T-8/J-6/E-4 Pocket Instruments are released. Roland Store London opens. Acquires all stake of Drum Workshop, Inc.

Roland's first device for game streamers. An audio mixer that delivers high quality streaming.

BOSS at 50, a special website commemorating the 50th anniversary of its founding, has been released.

The world's first convertible drum kit from DW Drums that can be played wirelessly as either acoustic or electronic drums.

Opened Japan's first its direct store, Roland Store Tokyo in Harajuku.

BRIDGE CAST Dual Bus Gaming Mixer is launched. Roland Store Tokyo opens in Harajuku. BOSS at 50 website is released. DWe Acoustic-Electronic Convertible Drum kit is launched.

Palm-sized guitar/bass headphone amp that delivers high-quality amp tones and effects, allowing you to play music anytime, anywhere.

Stylish, portable keyboards with authentic, versatile sounds and flexible auto-accompaniment, perfect for beginners and ideal for both playing and songwriting.

Roland Corporation and Universal Music Group formed a strategic relationship to empower human artistry.

KATANA:GO Personal Headphone Guitar Amplifier is launched. Roland Corporation and Universal Music Group form a strategic relationship. GO:KEYS 5/GO:KEYS 3 Music Creation Keyboards are launched. VQD106 V-Drums Quiet Design is released.

The quietest electronic drum set in Roland history, designed to minimize the sound and vibration of cymbals and pads, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your performance at home without disturbing others.

A unique electronic hand percussion instrument featuring pleasing sound and simple design.

A stylish, lightweight flute-style digital wind instrument.

The flagship drum machine that carries on the lineage of the legendary TR-808 and TR-909.

Mood Pan Electronic Hand Percussion is launched. Aerophone Brisa Digital Wind Instrument is released. TR-1000 Rhythm Creator, flagship drum machine, is launched. Roland's new headquarters “Roland Inspiration Hub” is completed in Hamamatsu.