Roland XV2020 64-Voice Expandable Synthesizer Module

Feature:
Pretty awsome features, more than enough to work with. The problem is in the software, though. It's really buggy and took me a couple weeks to get working on my Windows XP Laptop. Another problem is that you can only really control the synth sounds with a computer. Great for laptops if the software works.

Quality:
Onboard effects are just superb as well as some great instruments. There's not much to break on this unit. I had some trouble installing an SRX card at first, but after the second try it worked fine. Overall wonderful quality.

Value:
The next product on the Roland line is $1400. This is less than half that price, and you can install 2 SRX expansions. It's the most "worth it" product in it's price range. If you can afford to buy this and an expansion, you won't regret it.

Desirability:
The unit itself appeals very nicely to my studio and I'm sure it will to others ranging from beginning performer to professional composer. If your a composer thinking of getting a product like Gigastudio, which is the same price as the XV-2020, for movie scoring and classical work I'd say go with the XV-2020 and get the orchestral SRX expansion. If you like to compose or perform Pop/Rock or Ballad tunes go with the XV-2020.

Sound:
The core sounds on this module are pretty decent. The Guitars and Synths are the best, and the Pianos are the worst. For those who want very high quality sounds the SRX expansions, of course, have the best sound quality. If your into Pianos try getting the SRX-11 Ultimate Grand Piano Expansion and install it into the 2020.

Support:
Here's a tip, don't let the XV-2020 break. You'll regret contacting the horrible Roland service. The Roland manuals, especially the XV-2020s' are just horrible, but most will be able to work around problems with the module without having to consult the 2020's manual.

Overall:
At $600, the XV-2020 will be alot of Performers, Song Writers, and Composers gateway to high quality instruments. I highly recommend the SRX expansions and especially the module itself. There are no better products than the XV-2020 for it's price range.

Feature:
Features = buttons and controls. Am not a 'synth guy', so the simplicity of the unit works well for me. Wish it had a regular power cord without the wall wart.

Quality:
Fit and finish are fine. It's a rugged unit that can withstand some abuse (intentional or not). The selector knobs do not always 'click' into place and the main 'square'power button seems a bit flimsy.

Value:
Certain select sounds are so realistic they can move you to tears. It is hard to place a value on equipment this good, so yes, this unit is worth the typically selling price.

Desirability:
I wanted it before and I purchased one....have had it for over 1-1/2 years now....no problems...if the need arose, would definitely purchase it again.

Sound:
Pianos are excellent. Orchestral guitar is quite good. Steel drums are so-so. Accordians are very fine. Overall sounds are great especially when played through a Motion Sound KBR-3D using the Stationary 'Stereo' channel.

Support:
Had a few questions for Roland regarding how the module would interface with a non-Roland combo organ(midi capable)...they couldn't be bothered to discuss and kept referring to the fact that, "hey it's midi-capable so what else do you want to do with it?". On more than one occasion, the Roland customer service person was a bit arrogant...should be extremely helpful to new and first-time customers.

Overall:
This unit should last for a number of years to come. Its 'expansion card slot' enables you to stay current with Rolands newer sound technologies and will set your ears ablaze!