Roland unveils new “pocket-sized” instrument, P-6 Creative Sampler

Roland has unveiled a brand new “pocket-sized” sampler as part of a range of compact instruments, the P-6 Creative Sampler.

The compact sampler comes alongside a new range of instruments from Roland as part of its AIRA Compact series, which also includes synths, beat machines, and a “voice tweaker”.

“The P-6 Creative Sampler packs renowned Roland sampling technology into a pocket-size gadget with sophisticated granular sound design options and a powerful sequencer,” Roland announced.

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Billed as a portable, pocket-sized instrument, the P-6 promises to deliver “exceptional sampling and performance capabilities anywhere you go”. A dedicated app allows for macOS and Windows connection, storage, and more.

The unit comes with an “onboard mic, intuitive controls, USB-C connectivity, and a versatile stash of hands-on MFX” including Vinyl Simulator, Lo-fi, Phaser, and more, as well as customisable sounds and “dedicated delay and reverb”.

“After capturing sounds, quickly chop longer samples into preset sections for triggering from the onboard keyboard,” the P-6’s description reads. “Or easily build custom collections of multiple sounds with streamlined Step Sampling.”

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The P-6 also flaunts “advanced granular sampling tools”, allowing you to “transform tiny moments into sonic landscapes with extensive sound design parameters.”

“Detune samples, adjust the grain shape, play with head position, head speed, spread, and more. From clean and pristine to beautifully mangled, it’s easy to conjure new sound dimensions with a twist of a knob or a press of a button.”

With 64 steps patterns, the P-6 is powered by “dynamic sequencing elements” including motion recording, micro-timing, and sub-steps.

The Roland P-6 Creative Sampler is on sale now for $219 (£215). Find out more about it here, and check out a video of it in action below.

Gemma Ross is Mixmag's Assistant Editor, follow her on Twitter