Can you tell the difference between an analogue and digital Juno synth?

By Ben Rogerson
( Computer Music, Future Music )
published

Listen to the clips and put your neck on the line

Roland's Juno-106 is a classic, but can you really hear the difference between its sound and that of a digital emulation?
Roland's Juno-106 is a classic, but can you really hear the difference between its sound and that of a digital emulation?

The 'analogue vs digital' synth debate is one that rages as hard today as it ever has, with some insisting that the former simply sound better, but others happy to go with virtual analogue solutions.

Can you tell the difference, though? F9 Audio is challenging you to listen to a set of audio clips - some recorded with a real analogue JP edition Roland Juno-106, and others using the digital Roland JU-06 Boutique synth.

Take a listen below and leave your comments on the relevant SoundCloud clips. We're guessing that the answers will be revealed in due course.

Ben Rogerson
Ben Rogerson

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it.