ROLI Announces BLOCKS Studio Editions, New Desktop Software Suite

ROLI have announced BLOCKS Studio Editions and ROLI Studio, a new desktop software suite for the Seaboard Block, Lightpad Block, and Songmaker Kit. ROLI Studio combines the sounds and effects from three ROLI synths — Equator, Cypher2, and Strobe2 – as well as introduces the world’s first MPE drums plugin, ROLI Studio Drums.

ROLI Studio comes out of a six-month beta testing period on October 31, and will be available for free for current BLOCKS owners.

What’s new with BLOCKS Studio Editions?

• More sounds, all in one place: 100s of MPE sounds from ROLI’s Equator, Cypher2, and Strobe2 sound engines are now browsable in a unified desktop plugin: ROLI Studio Player. Includes cutting-edge audio effects and macros.
• A game-changing way to play drums: ROLI Studio Drums is the world’s first MPE drums plugin. Bend drum sounds and create grooves on the surface of the Lightpad Block. This expression has never been possible before via desktop software.
• New songwriting tools: ROLI Studio features new songwriting tools like Smart Chords, which speeds up songwriting by suggesting chord progressions per note. The Multi-Layered Arpeggiator lets producers creative interactive rhythmic patterns.
• Deeper integration of BLOCKS and ROLI software: ROLI Studio integrates BLOCKS more deeply with sounds and production tools that were spread across ROLI synths. Lightpad apps deepen the integration further on the Lightpad Block.
• Easier DAW integration: ROLI Studio, including ROLI Studio Drums, works as a plugin with all leading DAWs. It’s never been easier to produce with BLOCKS and ROLI sounds inside of Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, Bitwig, and other DAWs.
• The most advanced Blocks ever: Blocks have improved on many fronts in the past two years. Better finger tracking, MPE expression outputs, and multi-Block connectivity are some of the enhancements that make the Studio Editions the most playable Blocks yet.

Pricing and Availability

• Songmaker Studio Kit: $649.95 USD
• Seaboard Block: $349.95 USD
• Lightpad Block: $199.95 USD

After October 31, ROLI Studio will become available for free download and BLOCKS Studio Editions will be available for purchase through ROLI and verified retailers. You can visit the ROLI website to learn more.

Next: Novation Introduces The Launchpad X and Mini MK3