Roland keytars

It is AC-powered with no battery option – a proprietary multipin cable connects the AXIS to a Power Supply Unit on the floor.

The PSU has non-slip rubber sides and features a power cable, power switch, multipin cable input, and MIDI output, as well as a footswitch for sustain while playing.

This modern instrument contains many more advanced features than early keytars such as its predecessor, the Roland AX-1, and the Yamaha SHS-10.

Several features aimed towards stage performance are present, such as a pitch bend ribbon, touchpad-like expression bar, sustain switch, and volume control knob, all on the upper neck of the instrument.

There is also a proprietary "D-Beam" interface, made up of infrared sensors that detect nearby motion.

A UV Black-colored "premium" model called "Black Sparkle" was released in September 2010.

Herbie Hancock performing with a Roland AX-7 at the XM Sonic Stage at The Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival
An AX-7