Roland SH-3 Analog Monophonic Synthesizer

The Roland SH-3, released in 1974, is an early analog monophonic synthesizer that marked Roland's entry into the world of programmable additive synthesis. Produced in very limited quantities, estimates of SH-3 units made range from 40 to several hundred before it was succeeded by the SH-3A. The SH-3 is often confused with its successor, but it holds its unique place in synthesizer history due to its distinct diode filter design similar to the EMS VCS 3.

Despite its limited production, the SH-3 is valued for its unique sound and pioneering design. The control panel of the SH-3 is virtually identical to that of the SH-3A. The SH-3's rarity and historical significance make it a little-know but notable instrument in the evolution of analog synthesizers.

The Roland SH-3, like the SH-3A, features a single Voltage-Controlled Oscillator (VCO) capable of generating multiple waveforms, including sawtooth, square, and pulse waves, complemented by a sub-oscillator for added depth. The 24dB/octave Low-Pass Filter (LPF) is central to its powerful and resonant sound, characteristic of the transistor ladder filter design.

Contrary to common belief, the SH-3 did not infringe on the transistor ladder-filter patent of Robert Moog as it used a diode filter similar to the EMS VCS 3. It's the SH-3A that actually employ a transistor ladder filter, allowing it to produce Moog-like sounds.

The SH-3 also includes two Low-Frequency Oscillators (LFOs) and a unique sample-and-hold section, providing modulation capabilities not found in competing synthesizers of the time. It finally also offers an ADS envelope generator and pink/white noise generator, further expanding its sound design possibilities.