SH-2 by Roland software synthesizer plugin interface

SH-2: Software Synthesizer Recreating the Roland SH-2 from 1979

Rated 4.4/5 on Plugin Boutique (16 ratings)

SH-2 is a software synthesizer from Roland that recreates the classic SH-2 monophonic synth from 1979. It runs as a VST, AU or AAX plug-in on Windows and macOS, and can also work with select Roland hardware through PLUG-OUT.

VST2AUAAXWindowsmacOS64-bit

AVAILABLE ATPlugin Boutique

Download Now

Opens the store in a new tab

01Overview

The SH-2 is a monophonic analog-style synth known for its dual oscillators and sub-oscillator, which make it a favorite for heavy bass. This software version aims to reproduce the original unit's circuit behavior, including the self-oscillating filter and envelope character. It adds features the 1979 hardware never had, such as an extended VCO range, dual envelopes, modern effects and a tempo-synced arpeggiator, so producers can use the classic voice in current production setups.

Best for

Analog bass lines
Edgy lead sounds
Vintage synth recreation
Hardware and software hybrid setups
Tempo-synced arpeggios

Developer: Roland
Category: Synths
Store: Plugin Boutique

02Key features

What you get

Software recreation of the classic Roland SH-2 synthesizer from 1979
Dual VCO plus sub-oscillator design for bass, leads and analog-style FX
Detailed circuit modeling of the original's tone and behavior
VCO range expandable to 64' for deep bass
Two ADSR envelopes for shaping amplitude and modulation
Reverb, tempo-syncing delay and bit-crusher effects
Tempo-syncing arpeggiator
PLUG-OUT support with SYSTEM-8 and SYSTEM-1 hardware

03In depth

Sound Character and Circuit Modeling

Roland says the software was built from its knowledge of the original units and models the interaction between individual circuits. The developer states that the self-oscillating filter, the envelope attack and decay, and the original harmonic makeup are reproduced in detail.

The model also includes analog behaviors such as subtle shifts in tonality when unrelated parameters are adjusted. The dual VCO and sub-oscillator design is the core of the sound, delivering thick bass as well as sharp leads and analog-style effects.

Workflow, Controls and Hardware Integration

Beyond the original feature set, the plug-in offers a VCO range that can be extended to 64 feet for very low bass, along with two ADSR envelopes. Modern effects include reverb, a tempo-syncing delay and a bit-crusher, and the auto-bend function supports reverse actions.

The SH-2 supports Roland's PLUG-OUT format with the SYSTEM-8 and the smaller SYSTEM-1. Sounds can be transferred between hardware and software, and the plug-in can be sent to the hardware to run as a standalone synth without a computer. When hosted in a DAW, the hardware's knobs and sliders can control the software.

04Specs

Will it run?

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

Developer	Roland
Type	Plugin
Category	Synth
Formats	VST2, AU, AAX
Operating systems	Windows, macOS
Architecture	64-bit

05FAQ

Questions, answered

What is the SH-2 plugin?

The SH-2 is Roland's software synthesizer that recreates the classic SH-2 monophonic synth released in 1979. It adds modern features such as an extended VCO range, dual envelopes, effects and an arpeggiator.

What formats and operating systems does the SH-2 support?

The SH-2 is available as a VST2, AU or AAX plug-in. It runs on Windows 10 (64-bit) or Windows 11, and on macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later.

What do I need to use the SH-2?

You need a compatible DAW or plugin host that supports VST, AU or AAX, and an internet connection to install and activate Roland Cloud software. For PLUG-OUT use, the SH-2 works with Roland hardware such as the SYSTEM-8 and SYSTEM-1.