Roland Unveils New Juno-D Synth Keyboards 2024

Roland’s lineup of synthesizers for 2024 is extensive and might seem a bit overwhelming. With options like the Aira and Boutique series, along with Fantoms, Junos, Jupiters, and JDs, this iconic instrument maker offers many hardware keyboards and modules. Many of these models share similar sounds and features, which can add to the confusion.

The situation has become even more complex as Roland introduces another version of an existing keyboard line—the Juno-D. The original Juno-D came out in the mid-2000s as an affordable workstation keyboard for aspiring and touring musicians of various styles. Over the years, the series has evolved, with the most recent models being the Juno-DS range released in 2015.

Now, the updated Juno-D models come in three versions. They’re versatile synth keyboards that borrow many features from the high-end Fantom keyboards but are more affordable. Roland describes this range as “streamlined keyboards with powerful features for gigging musicians and budding music creators.”

All the Juno-D keyboards use Roland’s Zen-Core engine, the sample-and-synthesis system behind many of the company’s recent instruments. Each keyboard can access over 3,800 sounds, including standard synth tones, pianos, organs, orchestral, percussion, and classic sounds from Roland’s past gear. Users can also import samples to create and play their custom patches.

The Zen-Core system lets users expand their instrument’s sounds through Roland Cloud. By setting up an account, Juno-D owners can access free expansion packs and purchase themed packs to upload to their hardware.

The Juno-D keyboards are light and easy to use, and they are aimed at aspiring musicians, small bands, and touring players. They offer a wide range of hands-on controls and can be powered by a regular outlet or a USB-C battery pack. The USB-C port can also play songs or backing tracks from a smartphone, flash drive, or computer. Plus, the keyboards have a built-in audio/MIDI interface.

These instruments come with many playing options and tools. The sound engine is multitimbral, so the keyboards can be set to split and dual modes. There’s also a feature called Super Layer, which lets users stack and detune multiple copies of a sound. They include a multi-track sequencer, arpeggiator, chord mode, and a favorite system for quick sound access.