SBX-1

SYNC BOX

SBX-1

Multi-format Sync for Computers and Electronic Instruments

The SBX-1 lets computers and electronic instruments communicate and synchronize with each other. It supports a vast array of both analog and digital devices through DIN SYNC, MIDI and USB, and any of these can be the master clock source. You can use the SBX-1 itself as the master sync and control your external devices with its rock-steady internal clock. With hands-on control over timing and groove, and support for CV/GATE, the SBX-1 is far from just an ordinary sync box.

Adventures Through Time

The SBX-1 converts incoming performance information from an external device to both CV (pitch) and GATE (note) signals, so it offers possibilities far beyond what you would expect from a simple sync box. You can use it to play analog or modular synths. You can output the LFOs that you create in the SBX-1 along with performance information, modulate them, and even use them as trigger signals.

You can also add analog and modular devices to your computer-based production environment, or design totally new and innovative live performance setups that combine AIRA gear, such as TR-8, TB-3, and SYSTEM-1, with vintage analog or modular synths. The SBX-1 not only bridges worlds—it opens doors to entirely new ones.

Timing is Everything

When it comes to music, timing is fundamental. The SBX-1 keeps everything tight, syncing your analog and digital devices to your computer, or as the master sync source controlling the tempo of all your devices. In addition to the SBX-1’s internal clock, you can set the master to MIDI, DIN SYNC, or USB/MIDI. Physical knobs for TEMPO and FINE tempo along with TAP tempo give deep control of the overall groove and let you freely adjust your timing to sync-up with DJs or other performers in a band.

When you’ve absolutely got to have that swing, the SBX-1’s Shuffle function can add variable swing to patterns generated by external sequencers and rhythm machines—even those that are not equipped with a shuffle function, such as TR-808 and TB-303. Choose between 16th and 8th note swing, and correct timing errors with the quick-access, performance-friendly SYNC button.

Play Time

The SBX-1 comes complete with CV/GATE output jacks so you can control analog and modular synths from your external MIDI device or computer. MIDI notes and CC information from external sources are converted and output as CV/GATE information, and this creates all kinds of creative possibilities.

You can create LFO signals in the SBX-1 that are synced to either the internal clock or tempo from an external source. You can register up to five types (three types with AUX) of different LFO settings and output these as CV signals simultaneously from three channels (CV/BEND/AUX). You can also register up to five types (three types with AUX) of different MIDI notes as trigger settings and output these as GATE signals simultaneously from three channels (CV/GATE/AUX).

Switch
[DIN SYNC IN] Switch (24, 48)
[DIN SYNC OUT1] Switch (24, 48)
[DIN SYNC OUT2] Switch (24, 48)
[TRANSPOSE] Switch (H, M, L)
[POLARITY] Switch (+, -)
[BEND] Switch (WHOLE, OCT, LFO)
[AUX] Switch (1, 2, 3)
[POWER] Switch
Buttons
[CLOCK SOURCE] button (D-SYNC, MIDI, USB, INT)
[SYNC] button
[SHUFFLE] button
[STOP] button
[PLAY/PAUSE] button
[TAP] button
Knobs
[TEMPO] knob
[FINE] knob
Indicators
[D-SYNC] indicator
[MIDI] indicator
[USB] indicator
[INT] indicator
Display
7 segments, 4 characters (LED)
Connectors
DIN SYNC (IN, OUT1, OUT2) connectors
MIDI (IN, OUT1, OUT2) connectors
USB COMPUTER port: USB type B
DC IN jack
CV jack: Miniature phone type
GATE jack: Miniature phone type
BEND jack: Miniature phone type
AUX jack: Miniature phone type
Power Supply
AC adaptor or supplied from the computer via USB
Current Draw
150 mA (When using an AC adaptor)
200 mA (When using USB bus power)
Accessories
Owner’s manual
Leaflet “USING THE UNIT SAFELY”
AC adaptor
Size and Weight
Width
220 mm
8-11/16 inches
Depth
135 mm
5-6/16 inches
Height
52 mm
2-1/16 inches
Weight
790 g
1 lbs. 12 oz.

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Updates & Drivers

Support

If you have questions about operating your Roland product, please check our Knowledge Base for answers to the most common questions.
You can also contact our Product Support department by phone or email.
In addition, we have a library of Owner’s Manuals and Support Documents that you can download and reference.

Owner's Manuals

Support Documents