AIR Music Tech have announced the launch of a new virtual instrument that faithfully recreates Roland’s iconic SH-101 synthesizer. While it aims to deliver the same tones as the original hardware, Iona also introduces an array of modern functionality including a 128-step pattern sequencer and an intuitive graphical editor.
Iona’s sound engine is said to be capable of accurately replicating the sound of the popular synth thanks to detailed modelling that captures its oscillator section along with its original VCO pitch range and modulation controls. It’s possible to apply pulse-width modulation via LFO, envelope or manual control, and the BPM-sync’able LFO includes nine waveform shapes, while the filter benefits from envelope, LFO and keyboard tracking. The authentic experience is topped off by modelled a ADSR envelope, portamento and customisable pitch-bender controls.
While the sound of the instrument aims to remain faithful to the original hardware, AIR Music Tech have taken the opportunity to include a selection of more modern capabilities. a 128-step pattern sequencer that’s been designed to maintain the intuitive feel of the original while adding transpose/shift functions and a graphical editor for detailed programming, while onboard effects include Lo-Fi, Delay, Reverb and 3-Band EQ modules.
As well as working as a DAW plug-in, the new addition to the line-up is also compatible with Akai’s MPC and MPC Desktop systems.
“Iona captures the classic 101 tone we all know and love, then opens it up with a deeper sequencer and workflow refinements that fit today’s production styles. Whether you’re sketching on MPC or finishing a track in your DAW, it’s the same instrument — and the same sound — everywhere.” - Neal Gustafson, Software Marketing Manager, AIR Music Technology
Key Features
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Sound Engine
- Authentic 101 oscillator section with Pulse, Sawtooth, Sub and Noise sources.
- VCO pitch range and modulation controls faithful to the original.
- Pulse-width modulation via LFO, Envelope or manual slider.
- BPM-sync’able LFO with nine waveform shapes.
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Filter & Modulation
- Classic resonant filter with cutoff and resonance controls.
- Filter envelope, LFO and keyboard tracking.
- ADSR envelope assignable to VCA.
- Portamento and customisable pitch-bender controls.
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Sequencing & Performance
- 128-step pattern sequencer with classic 101 workflow.
- Transpose/shift functions and graphical editor.
- Integrated arpeggiator for expanded creative possibilities.
- Seamless MPC and DAW integration.
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Effects & Presets
- Onboard FX section: Lo-Fi, Delay, Reverb and 3-Band EQ modules.
- Over 100 factory presets for instant inspiration.
- Five visual skins (grey, red, blue, white, yellow), saved per-preset.
Pricing & Availability
Iona is available now, and is being offered at an introductory price of $59 until 22 November 2025, increasing to its full cost of $149 thereafter.
