GAIA 2 opens the door to an infinite universe of inspired sound creation. Armed with a powerful hybrid engine that combines wavetable and virtual analog synthesis, you can quickly learn the basics before rocketing into uncharted sonic territory.
The friendly panel layout logically outlines the synthesis workflow for speedy sound design, while full-size keys provide exceptional playability when you’re ready to perform. And with the sequencer and Motional Pad, it’s easy to generate complex sounds and phrases full of dynamic movement and alter them on the fly. Discover the shape of sound with GAIA 2 and bring all your musical visions to life.
GAIA 2’s newly developed sound engine puts a never-ending realm of tonal exploration under your fingers. Build familiar sounds inspired by past and present synth icons. Then dive into unique phase and shape modulation tools to unleash cutting-edge textures with complex overtones that can’t be expressed with traditional analog synths. Need something more extreme? Just crank the Drive knob in the multimode filter section for even more grit and power. Whatever you desire—from smooth tones reminiscent of vintage synths to edgy, biting leads to sci-fi soundscapes—GAIA 2 can do it.
GAIA 2 supports Roland Model Expansions, which faithfully recreate iconic synthesizers from our long history. Instantly swap between the built-in sound engine and classics like the SH-101,* JUPITER-8, or JUNO-106 with a dedicated button. Each Model Expansion is fully compatible with the GAIA 2 workflow, letting you re-imagine vintage sounds with the panel controls and develop new music using the sequencer.
*The SH-101 Model Expansion comes installed from the factory. Additional Model Expansion titles are available for purchase on Roland Cloud. With GAIA 2’s pre-installed SH-101 Model Expansion, the monophonic legend is reborn as a polysynth with new and exciting possibilities. Since its release in 1982, the small-but-mighty SH-101 has been a key ingredient in shaping electronic music and remains a favorite for its intuitive interface and head-turning sounds.
Modern sound design requires flexible and plentiful modulation. With GAIA 2, you can quickly and intuitively build complex modulation routings. Assign up to four parameters to each of the two LFOs, which come equipped with classic and modern wave shapes, including step modulation. Such effortless parameter assignments let you turn ideas into sounds almost instantaneously.
Along with note information, the sequencer records your panel movements, including tweaks to the pitch and modulation wheels, knobs, and sliders. External synchronization is also supported via MIDI or USB, enabling you to smoothly change sounds and patterns while staying in sync with a drum machine, DAW, or another device.
GAIA 2 comes loaded with classic Roland effects to take your sonic creations to the next level. Color, enhance, and mangle tones with a vast selection of MFX types, from filters, phasers, and distortions to scatter, lo-fi, and more. Add width and dimension with the dedicated Chorus section. Then bring on ambient depth with the diverse Reverb/Delay section, which features a newly developed Shimmer Reverb that infuses any sound with spaciousness and rich harmonic content. Along with adding a finishing touch, you can assign effect parameters to an LFO or the Motional Pad for real-time interest and movement.
GAIA 2’s powerful Motional Pad is a dynamic and expressive tool that brings static sounds to life. You can assign nearly any synth or effect parameter to each of the X/Y points, then morph between them by moving a finger on the pad. It’s also possible to record your movements to create complex, modulated transformations that play on their own. Many presets have Motional Pad settings baked in, ready to explore or customize for your own needs.
Equipped with 37 full-size keys, GAIA 2 delivers a rich and rewarding playing experience. Offering deep travel, balanced weight, and a graceful feel, this premium keyboard includes all the construction hallmarks that Roland is famous for.
GAIA 2 supports Roland Cloud Connect, an optional wireless system for accessing Roland Cloud content. Simply plug in the compact USB adapter, then audition content and download selections into the keyboard using a dedicated app on your mobile device. A Roland Cloud Connect purchase includes an entire year of Pro membership, giving you unlimited use of thousands of sounds, Model Expansions, and much more.