At the 2020 NAMM Show, Roland is introducing the ZEN-Core Synthesis System, a new platform that promises to standardize sounds across their various hardware.

With ZEN-Core, you can share and exchange sounds across synthesizers, so you can choose the hardware that best meets your workflow or application – from grooveboxes to performance synthesizers and stage pianos.

With the forthcoming system updates, owners of FANTOM 6/7/8 Synthesizers (Version 1.50*), JUPITER-X Series Synthesizers (Version 1.10) and RD-88 Stage Pianos will be able to use the same compatible sounds across all models.

An update for the MC-101 and MC-707 Grooveboxes will also be available in Q2 2020, with an update planned for AX-Edge later this year.

ZEN-Core base engine tones created on one instrument can be shared with other users or transferred into completely different compatible Roland hardware. Performers can take sounds made on a FANTOM and play them on an AX-Edge Keytar, or perform a JUPITER-X synth patch on an RD-88, simplifying setup and expanding tonal options.

The Roland ZEN-Core multi-timbral engine combines the latest Virtual Analog and PCM (up to 256 voices) synthesis techniques with powerful DSP effects. Advanced synthesis features include new VA oscillators, precisely modeled filters, ultra-fast and smooth LFO and envelope modulators, and high-resolution control of primary editing and performance parameters.

Sounds created for the base engine will be compatible across all ZEN-Core instruments.

ZEN-Core supports instrument-specific ZEN-Core Expansions including Analog Behavior Modeling for the JUPITER-X series and V-Piano for the new FANTOM Series.

Further ZEN-Core expansions will soon arrive for other instruments in the Roland ZEN-Core family.

Updates to support Zen-Core are expected to be available in late January, 2020.