Who had rackmount synths coming back on their 2026 bingo card? If you did, you can thank DinSync and its new R-101, a Roland SH-101 replica in a rack.
DinSync R-101
Racks are back, baby! Some of you may not remember, but in the ‘80s and ‘90s racks were an affordable way to get a lot of synth (and effects!) into not a lot of space. Funny though that since not as many rackmount units were made compared to the full keyboard version, they’re often more expensive now on the vintage market. But that’s not what we’re here to talk about today. We’re talking about the R-101, a new Roland SH-101 clone from DinSync – and it’s in a rack!
DinSync R-101 · Source: DinSync
Rack ‘Em Up
If you don’t know DinSync, you’re probably not an x0x fiend. The company makes Roland replicas like the RE-909 and RE-606. No points for guessing what machines those are clones of. Now we’ve got news of a new 101 remake, this time uniquely in a rack.
Called R-101, it’s a fresh new version of the company’s own RE-101 and made in collaboration with Krumptronics. Housed in a 150mm deep 19-inch rack, it does away with the mini keyboard of the RE-101 but keeps all of the other functionality that you know and expect.
“The Most Authentic 101 in Existence”
DinSync is all about authenticity in its remakes, and R-101 promises to be no exception. Bossman Paul Barker told us that the R-101 is powered by a Trevor Page Goblin CPU, a modern take on the original 101 CPU with added MIDI I/O. The new 101 features all of the original connectivity, too, with the added bonus of Eurorack-compatible aux jacks.
DinSync R-101 · Source: DinSync
At the heart of the R-101 is a genuine Curtis CEM3340 VCO, the Analogue Renaissance 3109 VCF, as well as their brand new BA662 replica VCA chip. “This is the most authentic 101 in existence, no compromises,” says Paul.
You can hear the new R-101 in action on the DinSync Instagram.
Pricing and Availability
DinSync will be showing its R-101 in fetching blue and red at Superbooth 2026 next month. It looks like a ton of fun, and I have to say I’m pleased that racks are coming back. Tabletop units are fine and all, but I don’t have room for a kitchen table in my studio.
As for price, Paul said this in an Instagram comment: “We can’t say for sure until we have the metalwork done.” Hopefully, we’ll hear about that plus availability at Superbooth.
More Information
DinSync homepage
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