Roland recently introduced its latest software plugin instrument, Galaxias, which is not to be confused with the Galaga-esque arcade game Galaxia. The new plugin offers access to an impressive 20,000 sounds, prompting Roland to call it “one big super instrument.” Available as a standalone application on both macOS and Windows, Galaxias also functions as a VST3 or AU plugin.
Similar to Arturia’s Analog Lab software, Galaxias provides access to sounds across Roland’s entire history. It features presets sourced from nearly every Roland instrument imaginable, including the iconic Jupiter 8 synthesizer and the legendary TR 808 drum machine. In addition to retro sounds, Galaxias offers plenty of options culled from recent releases like the System 8 and Zenology, among others.
The company touts Galaxias as providing access to any instrument available via Roland Cloud. Users have the ability to layer up to four instruments together, along with two effects per layer, to create custom soundscapes that Roland refers to as Scenes. Furthermore, Galaxias includes beefed-up adjustment parameters, with macro controls allowing users to change up to 128 parameters via internal LFOs or an external MIDI controller.
In terms of design, Galaxias is built around a proprietary interface that offers custom organization options for easy access to favorite presets. Roland also promises to regularly add more sounds and capabilities to the plugin.
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Galaxias is currently available and is included with a Roland Cloud Ultimate membership, which costs $200 per year or $20 per month. For those who are curious, there is a 30-day free trial available.
In addition to providing access to a wide array of sounds, Galaxias offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to organize and access presets. The standalone application is compatible with both macOS and Windows, and it also functions as a VST3 or AU plugin, providing versatility for users.
One of the standout features of Galaxias is its ability to layer multiple instruments together to create unique and complex soundscapes. Users can also add effects to each layer, further enhancing their ability to customize their sound. With macro controls that allow for the adjustment of up to 128 parameters, users have extensive control over the sound they create.
Galaxias also offers access to a wide range of sounds from Roland’s extensive history, making it a valuable tool for musicians and producers looking to access iconic and cutting-edge sounds. Whether it’s the classic tones of the Jupiter 8 synthesizer or the modern sounds of the Zenology, Galaxias has something to offer for every musical style.
The inclusion of a 30-day free trial gives curious users the opportunity to explore the capabilities of Galaxias before committing to a membership. With the promise of regular updates and new sounds, the plugin offers ongoing value for users.
Overall, Galaxias represents an exciting addition to Roland’s lineup of software instruments. With its vast library of sounds, versatile layering capabilities, and user-friendly interface, it’s poised to be a valuable tool for musicians and producers looking to push the boundaries of their creativity.
