Roland has introduced the VR-730 and VR-09-B, two new travel-ready V-Combo models with vintage looks, classic playability, and essential sounds for gigging players.
The VR-730 has a 73-note waterfall keyboard with semi-weighted action, while the VR-09-B comes equipped with a 61-note synth-action keyboard.
Both instruments are lightweight and easy to transport, and have vintage styling for a classic look on stage. Specifically designed for the needs of working keyboard players, the VR-730 and VR-09-B feature a wide selection of Roland’s top organ, piano, and synth sounds, seven simultaneous effects, and easy-access controls for maximum expression while performing.
The VR-730’s 73-note waterfall keyboard is well-suited for traditional organ players, offering quick-firing response for executing classic techniques like trill, sputter, glissando, and percussive hits. The VR-09-B’s 61-note keyboard provides easy playability with Roland’s well-respected synth action, and reduces size and weight for even greater portability.
A hallmark of the V-Combo series is providing performing players all the sounds they need in one convenient, easy-to-carry instrument. The VR-730 weighs just 21 lb. 14 oz. (9.9 kg), while the VR-09-B is even lighter at 12 lb. 3 oz. (5.5 kg). Both instruments can run on AA-size batteries if needed, offering the ultimate mobility for on-the-go gigs. The organ, acoustic/electric piano, and synth engines are organized in three intuitive panel sections, providing fingertip access to essential tones for covering any music style.
Roland’s latest Virtual Tone Wheel Organ engine faithfully emulates the sound-generating process of a real tone wheel organ, while nine harmonic bars provide classic hands-on tone control. Rotary effects are vital to the combo organ sound, and three genre-oriented types provide the right rotary tone for any music, from gospel and pop to jazz and rock.
Both V-Combo models feature many historic electric piano types, along with complementary vintage effects like phaser, tremolo, touch wah, and more. The VR-730 also includes an additional electric piano selection derived from the RD-2000. The acoustic grand piano in both instruments features 88-note stereo multi-sampling, delivering pro-level tone that rivals Roland’s dedicated stage pianos. Also on hand is a large selection of SuperNATURAL synthesizer sounds, from vintage analog classics to modern digital synths.
Via the free VR-09 Editor app for iPad, VR-730 and VR-09-B users have enhanced control of the organ and synth engines from their tablet’s large touchscreen interface. Users can also download additional VR-730 and VR-09-B sounds for free at Roland’s Axial website.
V-Combo VR-730/VR-09-B features
- VR-730: 73-note waterfall keyboard with semi-weighted action for authentic organ and electric piano performances.
- VR-09-B: 61-note performance keyboard with professional sounds for all music styles.
- Mobile, easy-to-carry design and runs on AC or battery power.
- Instant access to organ, piano, and synth sounds via dedicated panel sections.
- Virtual Tone Wheel Organ reproduces authentic vintage organ sounds.
- Three onboard rotary effects, including a newly developed rock rotary type with cutting presence for performing with loud bands.
- Vintage electric pianos and rich acoustic grand pianos; VR-730 EPs include a selection from the RD-2000.
- Wide selection of SuperNATURAL Synth tones, from vintage classics to modern essentials.
- Expand the onboard sound library with free downloads from Roland’s Axial website.
- Free iPad editor app for customizing organ and synth sounds.
- Seven simultaneous effects with dedicated real-time controls.
- Enhance performances and practice sessions with rhythm patterns, metronome, looper, USB audio recording/playback, and other built-in features.
More information: Roland
