Quick Product Summary

The Roland FANTOM 8 EX Synthesizer Workstation Keyboard is a flagship 88-note creative instrument built for professional performance, composition, sound design and studio production. Its premium PHA-50 hybrid weighted keyboard combines wooden and composite materials with escapement, Ebony/Ivory Feel surfaces and channel aftertouch for an expressive piano-focused playing experience.

Inside, the FANTOM 8 EX brings together Roland's most advanced technologies, including ZEN-Core, V-Piano, ACB, SuperNATURAL and Virtual ToneWheel sound engines. With over 7,000 onboard tones, deep sampling, a 16-track sequencer, a large colour touchscreen, extensive physical controls and professional audio, MIDI and CV/Gate connectivity, it can serve as the centrepiece of an entire stage or studio setup.

---

What Makes the Roland FANTOM 8 EX Special?

The FANTOM 8 EX takes Roland's flagship workstation platform further with an extensive collection of premium sound engines and expansions. Alongside ZEN-Core and V-Piano technology are ACB recreations of landmark Roland synthesizers, SuperNATURAL acoustic instruments, Virtual ToneWheel organs and powerful Model Expansion technology. Dedicated synth controls, an analogue filter section and deep effects make it possible to move from authentic acoustic instruments to heavily processed electronic textures without leaving the instrument.

Its creative workflow is equally powerful. Sixteen zones can control internal and external sounds, while clip-based sequencing, TR-REC programming, piano-roll editing, multisampling and 16 RGB performance pads provide a complete environment for composition and performance. Scenes capture entire setups for instant recall, making the FANTOM 8 EX equally at home producing tracks in the studio or handling complex live sets.

---

Who Is It For?

The Roland FANTOM 8 EX is designed for professional keyboard players, producers, composers, session musicians, touring performers and serious studio users who want a flagship instrument capable of covering piano, synthesizer, organ, sampling and workstation duties.

Its 88-note PHA-50 hammer-action keyboard particularly suits musicians who require a premium piano response but still need deep synthesis and production capabilities. Extensive audio, MIDI, USB and CV/Gate connections also make it an excellent centrepiece for hybrid setups incorporating computers, software instruments, modular synthesizers and additional MIDI hardware.

---

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Brand	Roland
Model	FANTOM 8 EX
Type	Synthesizer Workstation Keyboard
Condition	New
Keyboard	88-note PHA-50 hybrid hammer action
Aftertouch	Channel Aftertouch
Sounds	Over 7,000 tones
Zones	16
Main Appeal	Flagship synthesis, piano, sampling and sequencing platform
Best For	Professional stage, studio, production and composition
Skill Level	Advanced to professional

---

What’s Included?

• Roland FANTOM 8 EX Synthesizer Workstation Keyboard

• Power cord

• Owner's documentation

Not Included

• Keyboard stand

• Sustain/damper pedal

• Expression pedal

• Three-pedal unit

• Carry case

• Headphones

• USB flash drive

---

Technical Specifications

Keyboard

• Keys: 88

• Keyboard: PHA-50 hybrid wood and composite construction

• Hammer action

• Escapement

• Ebony/Ivory Feel key surfaces

• Aftertouch: Channel Aftertouch

The PHA-50 action provides the substantial response required for expressive acoustic and electric piano playing while retaining the control needed for synthesizer performance.

---

Sound Engines

The FANTOM 8 EX combines multiple Roland synthesis and instrument technologies, including:

• ZEN-Core

• V-Piano

• ACB

• Virtual ToneWheel Organ

• SuperNATURAL Acoustic

• SuperNATURAL Acoustic Piano

• SuperNATURAL Electric Piano

• Model Expansion sound engines

Onboard Sounds

• Tones: Over 7,000

• Drum Kits: Over 90

• Zones: 16 internal/external zones

Compatible ZEN-Core and Model tones can also be imported and exported.

---

ACB Synthesizer Expansions

The FANTOM 8 EX includes ACB-based expansions inspired by classic Roland synthesizers including:

• JUPITER-8

• SH-101

• JX-3P

• JUNO-106

ACB technology recreates the detailed behaviour and interaction of the original analogue circuits for highly authentic vintage synthesizer performance.

---

Model Expansions

The EX platform also includes access to advanced Roland Model Expansion instruments including:

• n/zyme

• JD-800

• JUNO-106

• JUPITER-8

• JX-8P

• SH-101

These provide additional synthesis architectures and instrument-specific controls within the FANTOM environment.

---

Piano Sounds

V-Piano

The dedicated V-Piano engine provides detailed modeled acoustic piano response and operates within Zone 1.

The FANTOM 8 EX includes the German Concert V-Piano Expansion 01, adding another premium concert piano character to the onboard selection.

SuperNATURAL Piano

SuperNATURAL acoustic and electric piano engines provide additional piano and keyboard sounds, with SuperNATURAL Acoustic Piano 3 Expansion preinstalled.

---

Organ

• Virtual ToneWheel organ engine

• Derived from Roland's acclaimed VK organ technology

• Dedicated organ-style controls

• Authentic tonewheel behaviour

• Rotary speaker effects

The organ engine operates within Zone 2.

---

Analogue Filter

The dedicated stereo analogue filter provides hands-on sound shaping outside the digital signal path.

Filter Types

• LPF1

• LPF2

• LPF3

• HPF

• BPF

• Bypass

Additional controls include:

• Drive

• Amplifier level

Dedicated analogue filter outputs allow processed signals to be routed independently.

---

Effects

Multi-Effects

• MFX: 16 systems

• MFX Types: 93

Additional Processing

• 16 × Part EQ

• 6 × Drum Part Compressors

• 2 × Insertion Effects

• 90 insertion effect types

• Total Effect processor

• Input MFX

• Chorus

• Reverb

• Master Compressor

• Master EQ

• Input Reverb

• Input EQ

The EX platform also includes studio-style effects such as Shimmer Reverb and Modulation Reverb.

---

Vocoder

• 13-band mode

• 20-band mode

• 32-band mode

• Mono operation

• Stereo operation

• 10 preset settings

• 20 user settings

The stereo 32-band mode provides detailed and expressive vocoder processing for performance and production.

---

Scenes

• Scenes: 128 × 4 banks

• Total Scene Locations: 512

Scenes can store extensive performance and production configurations for rapid recall.

Scene Chain

• Up to 512 Scenes per Chain Set

• Chain Sets: 100

• Marker support

Scene Chain functionality is ideal for organising complete performance setups into live setlists.

---

Sequencer

MIDI Tracks

• Tracks: 16

• Groups: 16

• Patterns: 8 per track

• Maximum Pattern Length: 64 measures

Recording Methods

• Real-time recording

• Step recording

• TR-REC

Editing

• Piano-roll editing

• Touch editing

• Automation

• Microscope editing

Songs

• 1 song per Scene

• Roland native format

• Standard MIDI File import/export

Pad Sampler trigger events can also be incorporated into sequences.

---

Sampling

Keyboard Multisampling

• WAV and AIFF support

• 16-bit and 24-bit

• 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz

• Maximum Samples: 8,000

• Multisamples: 128

• Maximum individual sample length: approximately 2 minutes 44 seconds

• Approx. 2 GB shared sample/expansion memory

Keyboard multisamples can be imported and exported as ZEN-Core tones.

Pad Sampler

• 16 performance pads

• 4 sample banks

• 16-bit linear format

• WAV/AIFF import

• 44.1/48 kHz

• Up to 8-note polyphony

• Maximum sampling time of approximately 60 minutes

---

Performance Pads

The FANTOM 8 EX features 16 RGB performance pads.

Available pad functions include:

• Sample Pad

• Note Pad

• Partial Select

• DAW Control

• Zone Mute

• Zone Solo

• Keyboard Switch Groups

• Rhythm Patterns

• Patterns

• Variation Play

• Group Play

---

Performance Controls

• Pitch Bend/Modulation lever

• 2 × assignable switches

• 8 × control knobs

• 8 × sliders

• 6 × function knobs

• 11 × Sound Modify knobs

• 2 × wheels

• 16 RGB pads

• Dedicated USB Audio slider

Sound Modify controls provide direct access to parameters including:

• Cutoff

• Resonance

• Attack

• Decay

• Sustain

• Release

• Amp

• Effect Depth

---

Display

• Size: 7 inches

• Resolution: 800 × 480

• Wide VGA

• Full-colour

• Touch-sensitive

• Backlit LCD

• Custom wallpaper support

The large touchscreen works alongside the extensive physical control surface for fast navigation and editing.

---

Computer & DAW Integration

Dedicated control modes are provided for compatible music software including:

• Ableton Live

• Apple Logic Pro

• Apple MainStage

• Steinberg Cubase

• PreSonus Studio One

This allows the FANTOM 8 EX to function as a central hardware controller within a computer-based studio.

---

USB Audio Interface

The FANTOM 8 EX functions as a high-resolution multi-channel USB audio interface.

• Maximum Resolution: 24-bit / 96 kHz

• Recording: 16 stereo channels

• Playback: 3 stereo channels

This provides up to a 16 × 3 stereo USB audio workflow between the FANTOM 8 EX and a compatible computer.

---

Audio Connections

Main Outputs

• Main Out L/Mono – 1/4-inch

• Main Out R – 1/4-inch

• Main Out L – XLR

• Main Out R – XLR

Sub Outputs

• Sub Out 1 L/R

• Sub Out 2 L/R

Analogue Filter Outputs

• Analogue Filter Out 1

• Analogue Filter Out 2

Inputs

Two Mic/Line inputs with:

• XLR connections

• 1/4-inch connections

Headphones

• Stereo 1/4-inch headphone output

---

MIDI

• MIDI IN

• MIDI OUT 1

• MIDI OUT 2 / THRU

• USB MIDI

• High-resolution velocity data support

---

CV/Gate

The FANTOM 8 EX can directly control compatible analogue and modular synthesizer equipment.

Connections include:

• 2 × CV outputs

• 2 × Gate outputs

Configuration supports:

• 2 CV/Gate pairs

• Or up to 3 CV outputs with 1 Gate output

---

Pedal Connections

Four pedal connections are provided:

• HOLD

• CTRL 1

• CTRL 2

• CTRL 3

Compatible optional Roland accessories include:

• DP-series damper pedals

• RPU-3 three-pedal unit

• EV-5 expression pedal

---

USB Connections

• USB COMPUTER – USB Type-B

• USB MEMORY – USB Type-A

• 3 × USB External Device ports

Compatible Roland controllers such as selected A-49 and A-PRO Series devices can be connected through the External Device ports.

---

Roland Cloud Expansion

The FANTOM 8 EX can be expanded with compatible content from Roland Cloud, including:

• ZEN-Core Sound Packs

• Wave Expansions

• EXZ Series content

• EXSN Series content

• EXM Model Expansions

• ACB expansions

Expansion data can be transferred into the FANTOM 8 EX using a compatible USB flash drive.

---

Dimensions

• Width: 1,432 mm

• Depth: 439 mm

• Height: 153 mm

Weight

• Weight: 27.7 kg

The substantial chassis and PHA-50 action make the FANTOM 8 EX a premium full-size workstation intended for demanding professional stage and studio environments.

---

Power Requirements

• Power: Direct AC mains operation

• Input: AC 117–240 V, 50/60 Hz

• Power Consumption: 50 W

• Internal power supply

• Power cord included

No external power supply is required.

---

FAQs

Is the Roland FANTOM 8 EX suitable for professional use?

Yes. The FANTOM 8 EX is Roland's flagship 88-note synthesizer workstation platform, designed for professional stage performance, studio production, composition and sound design.

What keyboard action does the FANTOM 8 EX use?

The FANTOM 8 EX features Roland's premium 88-note PHA-50 keyboard, combining wood and composite materials with hammer action, escapement, Ebony/Ivory Feel surfaces and channel aftertouch.

How many sounds are built into the FANTOM 8 EX?

The FANTOM 8 EX provides more than 7,000 tones and over 90 drum kits, alongside multiple synthesis technologies and expansion options.

What sound engines are included?

The instrument combines ZEN-Core, V-Piano, ACB, SuperNATURAL, Virtual ToneWheel and Model Expansiontechnologies, allowing it to cover everything from acoustic piano and orchestral sounds to vintage analogue synthesis and modern electronic textures.

Does the FANTOM 8 EX include classic Roland synthesizer sounds?

Yes. ACB and Model Expansion technology provide detailed recreations of classic Roland instruments including the JUPITER-8, JUNO-106, SH-101, JX-3P, JX-8P and JD-800.

Can I create complete songs on the FANTOM 8 EX?

Yes. Its 16-track sequencer supports patterns, groups, real-time recording, step recording, TR-REC, piano-roll editing and automation, providing a comprehensive environment for building complete arrangements.

Can I import my own samples?

Yes. The FANTOM 8 EX supports both keyboard multisampling and pad sampling, with WAV and AIFF import and extensive internal sample storage.

Does the FANTOM 8 EX have aftertouch?

Yes. The PHA-50 keyboard supports channel aftertouch, allowing additional expression to be introduced by applying pressure after playing a note.

Can the FANTOM 8 EX connect directly to a computer?

Yes. USB audio and MIDI allow direct integration with compatible computers, recording software and virtual instruments.

Can it work as an audio interface?

Yes. The FANTOM 8 EX supports audio resolutions up to 24-bit/96 kHz and provides 16 stereo recording channels and three stereo playback channels over USB.

Can it control analogue or modular synthesizers?

Yes. Dedicated CV and Gate connections allow the FANTOM 8 EX to control compatible analogue and modular equipment without requiring a separate MIDI-to-CV interface.

Does the FANTOM 8 EX have balanced XLR outputs?

Yes. Professional XLR Main Outputs are provided alongside 1/4-inch Main, Sub and dedicated analogue filter outputs.

Can I connect a microphone?

Yes. Two Mic/Line inputs are provided with XLR and 1/4-inch connectivity, and signals can be processed using the onboard input effects.

Does the FANTOM 8 EX have a vocoder?

Yes. It includes a flexible vocoder with 13-, 20- and 32-band modes, including a stereo 32-band option.

Can additional sounds be installed?

Yes. The FANTOM 8 EX supports compatible Sound Packs, Wave Expansions and multiple expansion technologies available through Roland Cloud.

Does the FANTOM 8 EX have built-in speakers?

No. It is a professional workstation designed for use with headphones, studio monitors, keyboard amplification or a PA system.

Is a sustain pedal included?

No. A sustain pedal is not included. Compatible Roland DP-series pedals, the RPU-3 three-pedal unit and EV-5 expression pedal are available separately.

What is the difference between the FANTOM 8 EX and FANTOM-08?

The FANTOM 8 EX is the flagship model, with the premium PHA-50 hybrid keyboard, a larger 7-inch display, over 7,000 sounds, ACB synthesis, V-Piano technology, analogue filter circuitry, extensive professional outputs, CV/Gate connectivity and deeper sampling and expansion capabilities. The FANTOM-08 is a lighter, more streamlined instrument based on the FANTOM-0 platform.

---

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you benefit from:

• Expert advice from our experienced musician-led team

• Carefully checked new, used and ex-display instruments

• Competitive prices

• Secure UK delivery

• Flexible finance options, subject to status

• Friendly pre-sale and after-sales support

• A trusted independent music retailer established in 1987

Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Looking to upgrade your current synthesizer, workstation, stage piano or keyboard? Fair Deal Music buys and part-exchanges a wide range of instruments and professional music equipment.

Trade in your current equipment towards the Roland FANTOM 8 EX and put its value towards your new workstation. Contact our team for a valuation and discover how much you could save.