4.8/5 stars (100 reviews) • Instruments / Synth
Product Summary
The Roland D-50 is one of the most iconic synthesisers ever made, and this plug-in is the only fully authentic software reproduction of the original 1987 hardware. It’s not a clone or an approximation — Roland built it using their Digital Circuit Behavior (DCB) modelling technology, which captures the original circuitry down to the characteristic “overtone noise” that gives the D-50 its distinctive, warm digital character.
At its core, the D-50 runs Roland’s LA (Linear Arithmetic) synthesis engine — a hybrid approach that pairs subtractive synthesis with harmonically complex sampled waveforms and built-in digital effects. That combination is what made the original so revolutionary in the late ’80s, and it’s what makes this plug-in immediately useful for anyone chasing the sounds that defined synth pop, new wave, new jack swing, R&B, and countless film scores of that era.
The plug-in version adds several modern enhancements on top of the authentic recreation. A virtual PG-1000 controller (based on the optional hardware expansion for the original unit) gives you deep, hands-on access to sound design without menu diving. Extra waveforms and a tempo-syncing LFO bring the engine up to speed for modern DAW workflows. You can also import SysEx files from a real D-50, swap patches with the Roland Boutique D-05 hardware synth, and access additional patch downloads beyond the full original preset library included out of the box.
Key Features
Processing
- Authentic LA (Linear Arithmetic) synthesis engine combining subtractive synthesis with sampled waveforms and integrated digital effects
- Digital Circuit Behavior (DCB) modelling captures every sonic nuance of the original hardware, including its characteristic overtone noise
- All original D-50 presets included, plus new patches and additional downloads
Control
- Virtual PG-1000 controller for deep, intuitive sound design and patch customisation
- Iconic joystick interface as featured on the original hardware
- Extra waveforms and tempo-syncing LFO for expanded sound design and DAW integration
Workflow
- SysEx file import from an original D-50 or legacy third-party libraries
- Patch and bank swapping with the Roland Boutique D-05 hardware synthesiser
- Full DAW integration via VST3, AU, and AAX formats
System Compatibility
Windows
- Windows 10 (64-bit) or Windows 11
- Formats: VST3, AAX
macOS
- macOS 11 Big Sur or later
- Formats: VST3, AU, AAX
Activation
- Internet connection required for installation and activation via Roland Cloud
- A compatible DAW or plugin host supporting VST, AU, or AAX is required
⚠️ Roland D-50 Deal Ended
The 67% discount has expired.
Check the link below for current pricing or new offers.
❌ Offer expired on Mar 03
💡 Pricing Note: The prices shown here are based on Plugin Boutique’s listed rate at time of publishing. Your local currency and exact discount percentage may vary depending on your region — click through to see the price in your currency before purchasing.
