Roland S-330
12-bit sampling character in a single rack unit
Released in 1987, the Roland S-330 packs 16-voice polyphony, a resonant low-pass filter with multi-stage envelopes, and a graphical editing interface into an affordable 1U rack sampler. Its distinctive 12-bit sound continues to attract musicians seeking late-80s sampling warmth.
Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Year | 1987 |
| Format | 1U rack-mount |
| Resolution | 12-bit linear |
| Sample Rates | 15 kHz / 30 kHz |
| Polyphony | 16 voices |
| Multitimbral | 8 parts |
| Max Sample Time | 28.8 seconds (at 15 kHz) |
| Filter | Resonant low-pass, 4-stage envelope (4 levels, 4 rates) |
| LFO | Sine and peak-hold waveforms |
| Outputs | 8 individual + stereo mix |
| Display | Composite video out for external monitor |
| Storage | 3.5” 2DD floppy disk |
Free Web Editor
The audiocontrol.org web editor communicates directly with the S-330 via MIDI System Exclusive, replacing the need for rare original control hardware. Edit patches, tones, envelopes, and filters from any browser with Web MIDI support.
Read the editor documentation or learn more about the project.
Accessories
The S-330 was designed for editing through an external display and pointing device. These original accessories are increasingly difficult to find, which is one reason the web editor exists.
- Roland MU-1 Mouse — MSX-compatible mouse used for navigating the S-330’s graphical interface.
- Roland RC-100 Remote Controller — Dedicated control surface with buttons and jog wheel for sampler functions.
Related Devices
The S-330 belongs to Roland’s S-series sampler family. These devices share architecture, sound engines, and disk formats, forming an ecosystem of 12-bit sampling tools from the late 1980s.
- Roland S-550 — The S-330’s larger sibling with expanded memory and dedicated monitor output.
- Roland S-770 — Roland’s flagship 16-bit sampler that succeeded the S-series 12-bit line.
- Roland W-30 — A sampling workstation combining the S-330’s engine with a keyboard and sequencer.