MKS-80 History — Roland

MKS-80

The RolandMKS-80Super Jupiter is a rack mountsound moduleversion of theRoland Jupiter-6and theRoland Jupiter-8synthesizers. It is an 8-voicepolyphonicanalog synthesizerthat was manufactured byRolandbetween 1984 and 1987. It is the only one of the MKS series of synthesizers to have analogue voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) instead of analogue digitally-controlled oscillators (DCOs). The voice architecture is almost identical to theJupiter-6synthesizer. The service manual states that "The module board of MKS-80 features the following in addition to that of JP-6, its brother module. 1) HPF. 2) Low boost circuit in the 2nd VCA. 3) DC supply current boost circuit (IC50)."

OverviewThe Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter, released in 1984, was a rackmount version of the Jupiter-6 and Jupiter-8 synthesizers. This eight-voice module offered the same analog sound in a compact 2U format, making it ideal for studios requiring Roland's analog character without the keyboard footprint.
The MKS-80 featured two DCOs per voice, Roland's analog filters, and comprehensive MIDI implementation. The MPG-80 programmer provided immediate knob-per-function control when connected. The module's sound was essentially identical to the keyboard versions.
The MKS-80 remains highly sought after for its analog Roland sound in a convenient format. The MPG-80 programmer is essential for full control, making complete systems particularly valuable.