The Roland P-6 is a pocket-sized creative sampler from the AIRA Compact series that combines sample capture, a dedicated granular synthesis engine, SP-404-style performance effects, and a 64-step sequencer in a battery-powered unit weighing 305 grams. A built-in microphone lets you sample on the spot, and USB-C handles audio, MIDI, and charging over a single cable.

Granular Sound Engine

The P-6 includes a granular synthesis engine developed specifically for this instrument. It breaks samples into tiny grains that can be reshaped in real time using dedicated controls for head position, head speed, grain size, grain shape, density, and spread. Additional parameters control grain reverse probability, timing jitter, and pitch-tracking behavior. The granular engine runs with 4-voice polyphony, turning short recordings into evolving textures, drones, and atmospheric pads.

Sampling & Sequencer

The P-6 stores up to 48 samples with 16-voice polyphony for standard playback. You can record from the built-in mono microphone, the stereo line input, or directly from a phone or computer via USB-C. Step Sampling mode lets you quickly build multi-sample kits. Resampling captures your output, effects and all, for layered sound design.

The 64-step sequencer supports real-time and step recording with probability, sub-steps, microtiming, and off-grid placement. Motion recording captures knob movements (Pitch, Start, End, Level, and three assignable controls) per step for parameter automation across a pattern. 64 user patterns can be stored and recalled.

Performance Effects

Twenty multi-effects types drawn from the SP-404MKII lineage cover DJFX Looper, chromatic pitch shift, scatter, isolator, resonator, stopper, super filter, vinyl sim, cassette sim, lo-fi, reverb, chorus, flanger, phaser, tremolo/pan, ring mod, crusher, compressor, filter/drive, and sync delay. Each effect provides three knob controls (six with Shift). Dedicated send effects add delay and reverb.

Specifications

• Sample Memory: 48 samples
• Polyphony: 16 voices (sample), 4 voices (granular)
• Max Sample Time: 5.9 sec at 44.1 kHz mono, 23.7 sec at 11.025 kHz mono (halved for stereo)
• Import Format: WAV (Linear PCM)
• Sequencer: 64 steps, 64 user patterns, motion recording
• Effects: 20 multi-effect types, send delay, send reverb
• Built-in Microphone: Mono
• Connections: USB Type-C (audio/MIDI/power), 3.5mm Sync In/Out, 3.5mm MIDI In/Out, 3.5mm Mix In, 3.5mm Mix Out/Headset (CTIA)
• Power: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery or USB bus power (500 mA)
• Battery Life: Approx. 3 hours (charges in approx. 3 hours)
• Dimensions: 188 x 106 x 37 mm (7-7/16" x 4-3/16" x 1-1/2")
• Weight: 305 g (11 oz)

In the Box

• Roland P-6 Creative Sampler
• USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable
• "Read Me First" leaflet