Roland GAIA 2 37-Key Virtual Analog + Wavetable Synthesizer

Roland GAIA 2 Overview

Complex Sound Design Made Easy

The Roland GAIA 2 inherits the hand-on design philosophy of the original GAIA and takes it to the next level with a newly developed hybrid sound engine that combines wavetable and virtual-analog synthesis to create a wide range of sounds, from classic analog pads and leads to cutting-edge electronic textures. The intuitive panel layout logically outlines the synthesis workflow for speedy sound design, while 37 full-size keys provide exceptional playability when you're ready to perform. The attractive aluminum panel is filled with high-quality knobs and sliders. An informative high-contrast OLED display enables you to quickly see your sound. Freely assignable modulation routings allow you to create complex and evolving sounds. GAIA 2 also introduces the Motional Pad for adding real-time movement and expression to sounds with touch-based, dual-axis modulation.

The onboard sequencer with real-time and step-recording options makes it easy to generate complex phrases full of dynamic movement and alter them on the fly. To add depth and dimension to your sound, the MFX section offers 53 unique effect types including JUNO Chorus effects, Shimmer Reverb, Modulation Reverb, and more. GAIA 2 comes with a variety of presets, including a suite of classic Roland synth sounds. It also offers support for Model Expansions and other content on Roland Cloud (the SH-101 Model Expansion is preinstalled), allowing you to add new sounds and features to your synth.

Sound Engine

• GAIA 2's newly developed sound engine puts a never-ending realm of tonal exploration under your fingers. Build familiar sounds inspired by past and present synth icons. Then, dive into unique phase and shape modulation tools to unleash cutting-edge textures with complex overtones that can't be expressed with traditional analog synths.
• For even more grit and power. just crank the Drive knob in the multimode filter section-from smooth tones reminiscent of vintage synths to edgy, biting leads to sci-fi soundscapes.

Wavetable: Oscillator 1

• The wavetable oscillator section in GAIA 2 offers multiple waveforms, and you can jump or morph between them for everything from dramatic shifts to slowly evolving textures.
• Adding the wavetable oscillator introduces contrasting textures into the mix, leading to unforeseen and exciting results.

Virtual Analog: Oscillators 2 and 3

• GAIA 2 gives you the tools to recreate the most famous analog synths of all time-or craft all-new voices never heard before. Twin virtual analog oscillators provide the building blocks of synthesis, enabling you to conjure past classics with complete authenticity. Or, head in the opposite direction and sculpt the tones of the future.

37 Full-Size Keys

• Equipped with 37 full-size, velocity-sensitive keys, GAIA 2 delivers a rich and rewarding playing experience.
• Offering deep travel, balanced weight, and a graceful feel, this premium keyboard includes all the construction hallmarks for which Roland is famous.

Hands-On Controls

• GAIA 2's logical workflow makes sound creation fast, easy, and fun. The one-control-per-function panel layout enables instant programming without having to resort to creativity-killing menu diving. And with the streamlined knobs and white anodized aluminum panel, even the look is inspiring. Wait until you see how it glows under stage lighting.

Motional Pad

• GAIA 2's powerful Motional Pad is a dynamic and expressive tool that brings static sounds to life. You can assign nearly any synth or effect parameter to each of the X/Y points, then morph between them by moving a finger on the pad.
• It's also possible to record your movements to create complex, modulated transformations that play on their own. Many presets have Motional Pad settings baked in, ready to explore or customize for your own needs.

See Your Sound with the OLED Display

• Positioned front and center, the informative display shows the output audio waveform as well as the path of the Motional Pad's recorded movement.
• With just a glance, you'll instantly grasp what's happening within the most complex sounds.

Modulation

• With GAIA 2, you can quickly and intuitively build complex modulation routings.
• Assign up to four parameters to each of the two LFOs, which come equipped with classic and modern wave shapes, including step modulation. Such effortless parameter assignments let you turn ideas into sounds almost instantaneously.

53 Unique Effects with JUNO Chorus

• GAIA 2 comes loaded with classic Roland effects. Color, enhance, and mangle tones with a vast selection of MFX types including filters, phasers, distortions, and dedicated chorus and delay/reverb sections with multiple types such as JUNO Chorus effects, Shimmer Reverb, Modulation Reverb, and more.
• You can assign effect parameters to an LFO or the Motional Pad for real-time interest and movement.

Sequencer for Notes and Panel Movements

• With the free-flowing sequencer in GAIA 2, you can easily capture your inspiration and realize your wildest visions. Record in real time, enter steps, and edit on the fly-all without stopping playback. Or, tap into the Random Pattern feature to ignite your creative engine with spontaneous musical energy.
• Along with note information, the sequencer records your panel movements, including tweaks to the pitch and modulation wheels, knobs, and sliders. External synchronization is also supported via MIDI or USB, enabling you to smoothly change sounds and patterns while staying in sync with a drum machine, DAW, or another device.

USB-C Audio/MIDI Interface

• Connect to your computer, smartphone, or tablet via USB-C, and use GAIA 2 as an audio/MIDI interface with DAWs and other music apps.
• The class-compliant connection is plug-and-play, with no driver installation needed.

Versatile Connectivity with AIRA LINK

• GAIA 2 supports AIRA LINK for sending audio/MIDI information to a compatible Roland AIRA device such as the MX-1 Mix Performer.
• You can also connect a USB flash drive to backup and restore data or plug in a standard USB MIDI controller for extended operation.

Wireless Access to New Sounds

• GAIA 2 supports Roland Cloud Connect, an optional wireless system for accessing Roland Cloud content. Simply plug in the compact USB adapter, then audition content and download selections into the keyboard using a dedicated app on your mobile device. A Roland Cloud Connect purchase includes an entire year of Pro membership, giving you unlimited use of thousands of sounds, Model Expansions, and much more.

Roland Model Expansions

GAIA 2 supports Roland Model Expansions, which faithfully recreate iconic synthesizers from the company's long history. Instantly swap between the built-in sound engine and classics like the SH-101, JUPITER-8, or JUNO-106 with a dedicated button. Each Model Expansion is fully compatible with the GAIA 2 workflow, letting you reimagine vintage sounds with the panel controls, and develop new music using the sequencer.

SH-101 Onboard

• With GAIA 2's preinstalled SH-101 Model Expansion, the monophonic legend is reborn as a polysynth with new and exciting possibilities. Since its release in 1982, the small but mighty SH-101 has been a key ingredient in shaping electronic music and remains a favorite for its intuitive interface and head-turning sounds.

Model Expansion Sound Packs

• Log onto Roland Cloud, power up your GAIA 2, and download fresh new sounds created by leading sound designers and producers.