You should try the VST at least.
I’ve had dozens of polysynths and the S8 is one of two synths NEVER leaving my arsenal.
It is exceptional.
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I have tried the VST, but not in depth. I rarely use software synths. I just don’t find as much enjoyment from them. I also have a ridiculous resentment towards the Roland Cloud app. Haha!
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Ok. I found another one for $950+shipping. I’m so tempted. I still king of want to make an EP with just the green Roland kit I’ve got out of spite. Maybe Brat Summer rubbed off on me. TR-8S, SO-404A, and this wouldn’t be a bad setup.
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Maybe things will change with the current / upcoming generation of MIDI controllers. I particularly like the one that has encoders and screen merged into a single surface. That has potential of being actually better than regular HW synth panels, as the graphics and functions of the encoders will can change based on the context. Getting SYSTEM-8 VST instead of the real thing was the first thing I was imagining as a reason to get it 
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Does anyone know which version came first? The one with the Jupiter and Juno labels or the one that just has Plug-Out 1, 2, and 3? And is there any difference besides the label above the buttons?
The Jupiter and Juno plug-out sticker came first (it was just a sticker applied).
Plug-out slot 3 didn’t even have something to load in it yet… even the Juno on slot 2 wasn’t ready at launch, despite the sticker. It came soon after.
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Makes sense. Thanks for the clarification!
Why, are you look to gauge the age of a second hand S8?
If so FYI… I bought the S8 the day it came out (almost 10 years now!) and it is still ticking along nicely. Zero reliability issues 
Never had a dust cover on it ever either!
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There’s two available with power supplies. One of each design. Just curious which one is newer. Plus I don’t like the jup/jun logos on it. Petty. I know.
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I’m pretty sure you can just remove the stickers and there will be the labels “plug-out X” beneath it.
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I don’t have an A4 unfortunately.
Hahaha
Not petty at all, IMO
Like drum machines with engines freely loadable but that say CH Or OH
Can’t stand that, and it messes with me when I come back to projects later
Looking at you Tr-8S
My System 8 doesn’t say Juno, whatever
I like that it doesn’t
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I hear you. The DT Mk1 bothered me that way.
Just got the tracking number for order! I can’t wait to set up my offensive green beat station.
Got it from GC for $920 after shipping and tax. I had some coupons. GC does have another used one for $949 if anyone is in the market.
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Congrats!
Check out the more weird filters on the S8 engine, they really take it to the next level. Sideband and formant filters - yes!
Another overlooked thing is the “tone” knob. It can massively change a patch in an instant.
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I will for sure! I’m excited to try and push it out of classic Roland territory.
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It’s nuts how they are going for 2100 new now. What’s nice is you get all the good ACB plugins in your hands without a Roland Megaup,pad pop up bothering you while you’re on your computer.
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I had a $1549 new one in my cart before the tariff price hike but I missed the opportunity. So I went with used.
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I saw Thundercat perform back in February of 2020, right before it all fell apart. The man he had playing keys with him was rocking a System-8, and it sounded phenomenal. He was also playing these crazy arpeggios manually and it was so beautiful to watch, even with his face lit up from underneath by the sickly green glow.
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