JUPITER-4 by Roland analog synth plugin interface

JUPITER-4: Analog-Modeling Synth Plugin by Roland

Rated 5.0/5 on Plugin Boutique (5 ratings)

JUPITER-4 is an analog-modeling software synthesizer from Roland that recreates the first synthesizer to carry the JUPITER name, introduced in 1978. It runs as a VST3, AU or AAX plugin on Windows and macOS.

VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit
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01Overview

Roland's JUPITER-4 brings back the first polyphonic analog synth in the JUPITER line as a software instrument. Roland uses its Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) modeling to reproduce the original hardware's circuit behavior, including its character and instabilities. Beyond the original design, the plugin adds double the polyphony, extra parameters, an arpeggiator and onboard effects, and it can also work with Roland's SYSTEM-8 hardware synth.

Best for

  • Synth pop leads
  • New wave pads
  • Vintage polysynth basses
  • Live SYSTEM-8 performance
  • Tempo-synced arpeggios
Developer
Roland
Category
Synths
Store
Plugin Boutique
02Key features

What you get

  • Analog circuit modeling using Roland's enhanced ACB technology
  • Detailed interface modeled on the vintage hardware
  • Polyphony selectable from two to eight notes
  • Circuit Mod macro for real-time tonal changes
  • Condition parameter simulates the effects of aging
  • Ensemble chorus plus reverb, flanger, delay and overdrive
  • Tempo-synced LFO, arpeggiator and effects
  • PLUG-OUT compatibility with the SYSTEM-8 hardware synth
03In depth

Sound and circuit modeling in the JUPITER-4

The original JUPITER-4 hardware had a single VCO, and Roland says its oscillator, filter, LFO section and other components work together to produce a thick, warm tone. The plugin is built on Roland's ACB process, which analyzes original hardware units, circuit diagrams and historical data to recreate the instrument's behavior.

The built-in Ensemble chorus is a central part of the sound. Roland also says the plugin adds phaser, flanger, overdrive, reverb and delay, so you can shape the tone further without leaving the instrument.

Workflow, controls and the Circuit Mod function

The Circuit Mod function lets you sweep through multiple internal trim settings with one macro control. Paired with the Condition parameter, which simulates aging, it covers everything from a factory-fresh sound to a worn-out vintage synth. Circuit Mod can be adjusted in real time.

The LFO, arpeggiator and effects sync to tempo. The interface is freely resizable, and polyphony is selectable from two to eight notes. With PLUG-OUT, a SYSTEM-8 can be used as a standalone eight-voice JUPITER-4 for studio or stage.

04Specs

Will it run?

Formats, systems and requirements as listed by Plugin Boutique. Missing details are left out, not guessed.

DeveloperRoland
TypePlugin
CategorySynth
FormatsVST2, AU, AAX
Operating systemsWindows, macOS
Architecture64-bit
05FAQ

Questions, answered

What is the JUPITER-4 plugin?

JUPITER-4 is Roland's software recreation of the first synthesizer to carry the JUPITER name, introduced in 1978. It is built with Roland's ACB modeling and includes features the original did not have, such as extra polyphony and effects.

Which formats and operating systems does JUPITER-4 support?

JUPITER-4 is available in VST3, AU and AAX formats. It runs on Windows 10 (64-bit) or Windows 11, and on macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later, with native support for Apple silicon.

What do I need to use JUPITER-4?

You need a compatible DAW or plugin host that supports VST, AU or AAX. An internet connection is required to install and activate the Roland Cloud software.

Can JUPITER-4 work with Roland hardware?

Yes. JUPITER-4 integrates with the SYSTEM-8 keyboard, which can change its panel to match the plugin or act as a standalone eight-voice JUPITER-4 through PLUG-OUT.

07Developer

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