Roland JX-3P - MKS-30, PG-200

MKS-30, PG-200

The JX-3P is fully programmable from its front panel. To do so, each synthesis parameter must be selected numerically, then its value can be adjusted with a single slider. For a more immediate programming experience, the optional PG-200 "programmer" was introduced. Connected to the synthesizer via a proprietary interface, the PG-200 is a simple control surface with dedicated switches and knobs for controlling each of the JX-3P's parameters. It allows the user to edit patches with the conventional controls of an analog synthesizer. It is not possible to use the PG-200 and the MIDI interface at the same time, however.

A rackmount synthesizer similar to the JX-3P, the MKS-30 Planet-S, was also produced. Unlike the JX-3P, the MKS-30 would respond to velocity (dynamics) via MIDI, and can receive MIDI notes while simultaneously working with the PG-200 programmer.

The PG-200 programmer was also used with Roland's GR-700 Guitar Synthesizer.

There is an EPROM version available at Roland, which enables note velocity in MIDI-in mode. There is an add-on kit available from Inque (see link below), which enables parallel usage of PG200 and MIDI and also introduces parameter control via MIDI controller data.