About
The Roland Fantom EX is a series of professional-grade synthesizer workstations aimed at musicians and producers. It’s known for its versatility, high-quality sounds, and powerful features. Here’s a breakdown of its key characteristics:
- Sounds
- Diverse sound library with over 7,000 tones covering various musical styles.
- Roland’s sound engine technologies like ACB (Analog Circuit Behavior) for realistic analog sounds, ZEN-Core for sample-based sounds, V-Piano for superior piano tones, and SuperNATURAL for rich and expressive acoustic instruments.
- Access to premium sound content through Roland Cloud for further sonic exploration.
- Hardware and User Interface
- Comes in three models: Fantom 6 EX, 7 EX, and 8 EX, differing in the number of keys.
- User-friendly interface with a combination of buttons, knobs, sliders, and a large, dynamic color touchscreen for intuitive control and sound shaping.
- Option to personalize the interface with custom images.
- Workflow and Features
- Onboard sampling and composition tools for creating and arranging musical ideas.
- TR-REC step sequencer for programming drum beats and rhythmic patterns.
- Real-time recording with piano roll editing for capturing and editing musical performances.
- RGB pads for triggering sounds, samples, and launching clips.
- Various effects processors for adding depth and character to sounds.
Here are some additional points to consider
- The Fantom EX series was released in 2019, building upon the original Fantom platform.
- Existing Fantom owners can upgrade their instruments to include the EX features and sounds through the Roland Cloud Fantom EX Upgrade.
- There are many online resources available that provide more detailed information and reviews about the Roland Fantom EX, including Roland’s official website, demos on YouTube and reviews from music stores.
Overall, the Roland Fantom EX is a powerful and versatile workstation that caters to a wide range of musical needs. Whether you’re a producer, keyboardist, or simply a musician looking for a comprehensive instrument for creating and performing music, the Fantom EX is a great option to consider.
Models
Each FANTOM EX model includes the same internal features, panel layout, and connectivity. The only differences are the keyboard configuration, size, and weight.
- Fantom 6 EX - The most compact FANTOM EX comes equipped with 61 synth-action keys.
- Fantom 7 EX - Extend your musical range with 76 synth-action keys.
- Fantom 8 EX - The top-tier FANTOM EX model with 88 hammer-action keys.
Prices
(as of June 2024)
Specifications
- Roland’s premier synthesizer series, updated and enhanced with the latest technologies
- Powerful and intuitive user interface designed for free-flowing creativity
- Compose and perform with Roland’s most advanced sound engines: ACB, ZEN-Core, V-Piano, SuperNATURAL, Virtual ToneWheel, and more
- Over 7000 onboard sounds from the historic Roland library
- JUPITER-8, SH-101, and JX-3P ACB Expansions
- n/zyme, JD-800, JUNO-106, JUPITER-8, JX-8P, and SH-101 Model Expansions
- V-Piano engine with updated UI and preinstalled German Concert V-Piano Expansion 01
- SuperNATURAL piano engines and preinstalled SuperNATURAL Acoustic Piano 3 Expansion
- Virtual ToneWheel organs derived from the Roland VK series
- Massive effects library, including new studio-grade Shimmer Reverb and Modulation Reverb
- Master FX processor enhanced with ready-to-use presets and updated UI for Mastering Comp and Mastering EQ
- Stereo vocoder with 32 bands
- Professional sequencing tools with clip-based workflow, TR-REC step sequencer, piano-roll editing, and more
- Advanced sampling with one-shot playback, pitched keyboard assignment, and multisample support
- Large color touchscreen and ergonomic panel layout loaded with knobs, buttons, and sliders
- 16 RGB pads for trigging sounds, samples, and clips
- Comprehensive connectivity with multi-channel audio I/O, MIDI I/O, dual CV/gate outputs, USB, and more
- 16x3 audio/MIDI USB interface
- Dedicated software control modes for Ableton Live, Logic Pro, MainStage, Cubase, and Studio One
- Expand your creative range with ZEN-Core Sound Packs and Wave Expansions on Roland Cloud
- FANTOM EX Upgrade available to original FANTOM owners on Roland Cloud
- Premium 76-note keyboard with synth action and channel aftertouch
Alternatives
Here are a few alternative workstation synths to consider
- Korg Nautilus (£1,499 - £2,055, as of June 2024)
- Yahama Montage M (£3,219 - £4,049, as of June 2024)