Roland’s JX-8P synthesizer is a product that is relatively unknown, but definitely underrated. In terms of programmability, it obviously isn’t the best. Due to the fact that it is a model that isn’t exactly the most up to date, you can certainly make the argument that it isn’t necessarily one of the best synths of the year. Despite all that however, there are still numerous reasons as to why you might consider purchasing this unit, even in 2019 and beyond. It is not the worst synth (especially for a beginner) and the polyphonic sounds aren’t terrible either. Overall, underrated is one of the best ways to describe the JX-8P.
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User Interface/Style
In terms of how it looks and feels, you can tell right off the bat that the JX-8P certainly isn’t a complex synth in any way. Actually, it is one of the most basic synthesizers we’ve ever reviewed in terms of raw ability and level of complexity. Even so, that shouldn’t diminish what we think of the product in any way. It can still perform fantastically and as far as beginner or basic synths go, I’m not sure you can get much better in this category of products. Overall the basic and rather bland interface is both a good and bad thing. We like that it keeps things tidy and organized, but at the same time it can be underwhelming, especially after playing with something like a Montage 8.
Sounds
The only reason that this synthesizer is even remotely relevant so long after its release is because the sounds produced by this synth are pretty extraordinary. Think about it – you’re not getting much in terms of capabilities, functions, or even technology. The build is okay, and overall it doesn’t stand out in many ways at all. But what can we definitively say is great about the JX-8P? That it is a pretty great sounding machine, and lives up to the Roland standard. There is a reason why Roland has been so renowned for such a long time – they are nearly unbeatable when it comes to sound.
The polyphonic capabilities on the Roland synth are a nice touch (and something that not every product has), though it is slightly outdated. Surely you won’t be blown out of the water by what it can do but again, it is a nice touch and we’re glad it was added in the first place.
Features
Again, you shouldn’t be buying this product because of its features. The reality is that it is very underwhelming when it comes to this and many synthesizers exist that are completely ridiculous (in a good way) if you were to compare it to this model. However, not all synths can compare to the sound of the JX-8P which is its strong suit. Here are the basic, but notable features you can expect with the Roland JX-8P synthesizer keyboard:
- Vintage Roland JX-8P Polyphonic Synthesizer.
- The JX-8P’s Edit function allows you to alter any of the tone colors in it to your taste. The optional PG-800 (Not Included) can be used for faster and easier editing operation.
- The JX-8P allows you to put a name to each tone color, using up to 10 letters before saving it.
- The name of the tone color or parameter currently in use is shown in the display window. The Patch Chain function is effectively used specially during live performance, allowing you to call up to 8 Patch programs-one after another in the order you have set.
- The Optional Memory Cartridge M-16C (Not Included) can expand the JX-8P’s Memory capacity by 32 programs. Incorporated with MIDI, the JX-8P can be set up with other MIDI devices.
Overall – Is The Roland JX-8P Worth It?
If you are into vintage synths, absolutely. If you love the sounds produced by this Roland synth, absolutely. You might even consider purchasing this keyboard as a beginner, as it is still relatively easy to learn with. This product is probably not for you if you are a highly advanced individual looking to up your game with something extremely complex and full of features. It is also not highly programmable, so keep that in mind. In general, the JX-8P is worth the money and definitely a classic.
