Roland MC909 64-Voice Sampling Groovebox

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Manufacturer's Description for Roland MC909 64-Voice Sampling Groovebox

The MC-909 is Roland's answer to the demands of serious producers who want a workstation that seamlessly integrates audio and MIDI. Based on a new generation XV synthesis engine with up to 272MB of sampling RAM*, the MC-909 has evolved beyond the original concept of a Groovebox. This professional workstation also boasts 800 new Patches, 64 Rhythm Sets and 693 all-new waveforms with SRX expansion. And with professional sequencing, onboard effects, mastering tools and an ultra-intuitive interface -- plus a USB port for exchanging samples and sequences with a PC -- the MC-909 is all you need to take your music from conception to completion.

Features:
Professional 64-voice workstation with new-generation XV synthesis, sampling, 16-track sequencer, effects and oversized graphic LCD

16MB sample memory expandable up to 272MB using optional DIMMS, and SmartMedia storage for sample data

Hundreds of new high-quality patterns, sounds and rhythm sets; expandable via SRX-Series wave expansion board

Studio-quality effects including 24-bit reverb, 2 multi-effects processors, compression/EQ and mastering effects

Built-in USB port for sample/Standard MIDI File transfer and User data backup

S/PDIF digital I/O, 6 analog outputs and stereo analog inputs

Dual D Beams, Turntable Emulation and velocity-sensitive pads -- plus front-panel knobs, buttons and sliders to modify sounds and patterns

New V-LINK function for integrating audio and video in performance

The Fusion of Audio and MIDI
The MC-909 is more than a Groovebox with sampling. In fact, it's really an integrated music production system. Now audio and MIDI can be integrated, synthesized and sequenced together within a single, easy-to-use environment. Sample some phrases and sequence them alongside MIDI tracks as the MC-909 synchronizes your loops automatically. Samples can even be used as raw waveforms in the synthesizer section, opening up a world of sonic possibilities.

Straightforward Programming
One look at the front panel and it's clear the MC-909 is a serious machine. On the inside is a powerful 4-Tone synthesis engine with stereo waveforms per Tone and 64-voice polyphony. Yet the MC-909 is still as easy to program as an analog synth�thanks to a generous supply of knobs, buttons and sliders.

Flexible Sampling with .WAV Import
The MC-909 comes with 16MB of sample memory, expandable up to 272MB using optional DIMMs. Audio can be recorded via the stereo analog inputs or digitally using the S/PDIF input. You can even import .WAV/AIFF files from a computer via USB -- making it possible to tap into the many free samples on the Internet. And when your track is complete, simply resample the output and export it back to a PC for CD burning or distribution on the World Wide Web.

Chop, Stretch and Loop
Once recorded, a sample can be processed in a variety of ways. Using Wave Edit, a waveform can be truncated and looped while viewing it graphically on the LCD. The Timestretch function, on the other hand, makes it possible to change a loop's tempo without affecting pitch. Or, if you prefer to create your own loops, simply "slice" up a loop with Chop. And just like Roland's professional samplers of years past, you can trigger samples chromatically from the velocity-sensitive pads or via an external MIDI keyboard.

Rock-Solid Timing and More
The MC-909's sequencer has been improved in many ways. First, the resolution is now 480 TPQN for rock-solid timing. Patterns can also be up to 998 measures -- great for those who prefer linear programming -- and the pads are now velocity-sensitive! A new version of Roland's popular TR recording method (similar to "Piano Roll" editing) makes it possible to view several notes at once using the pads and LCD. Best of all, the MC-909's sequencer is fully compatible with Standard MIDI Files, allowing you to import and export SMF sequences via the built-in USB port.

Club-Ready Presets in the Latest Dance Styles
Like all Grooveboxes, the MC-909 ships with hundreds of fresh new patterns -- programmed by professional producers -- that fully exploit the new sounds. These hard-hitting grooves are guaranteed to rock the dance floor and include popular styles like UK hard-house, trance and the latest "broken-beat" hip-hop and R&B. Use the presets as a starting point for your own grooves or play them "as-is."

Separate Reverb, Compression and MFX
There's no need for outboard effects with the MC-909. To start, there's a 24-bit reverb that can be applied to each sequencer part. And with the new dedicated compressor, you no longer have to sacrifice a multi-effect to get tight bass and drums. That leaves 2 independent multi-effects (MFX) for the new filter algorithms -- including a 36dB filter and amazing Step Filter -- plus tempo-synced delay up to four seconds*, phasing, distortion and other proprietary effects like Lo-Fi, Slicer and COSM Amp Modeling.

* MFX 2 only.

New Dedicated Mastering Effects
Topping of these killer effects is the dedicated Mastering processor. This special tool includes 3-band compression for creating "final" mixes with incredible clarity and punch. And dialing in the right setting is easy, thanks to dedicated knobs for each frequency band. Now producers have everything they need to take their music from idea to finished product. Just re-sample the mastered output and export it to a computer for CD burning and MP3 creation with your favorite software tools.

Easy Operation and Performance Control
The MC-909's new LCD screen makes it easy to locate sounds, sample audio, edit waveforms and sequence MIDI arrangements. Nearly all major parameters can be accessed via knobs, sliders and buttons, while the dedicated Part Mixer makes mixing a snap. You also get two of Roland's most popular performance controllers: Turntable Emulation makes it possible to adjust pitch and time independently for MIDI or audio (thanks to some innovative realtime time stretching), while Twin D Beams use an infrared beam of light for triggering samples, tweaking filters and more.

An SRXpandable Sound Set
The MC-909 ships with a dance-oriented ROM containing 800 new Patches, 72 Rhythm Sets and 693 all-new waveforms exclusively sampled and created for this next-generation workstation. These sounds include everything from house pianos and organs to edgy techno hoovers and stabs�plus favorites like the JP-8000 'SuperSaw' waveform and distorted TB-303 sounds.

There are also plenty of basses, pads and sound effects perfect for any track, along with the most complete assortment of drum kits ever assembled.

New sounds can be added by installing an optional SRX-Series Wave Expansion Board. And if you choose the SRX-05 "Supreme Dance" expansion, you'll get special Patches that can only be accessed on the MC-909. It's a "must-have!"

* As the SRX-Series contains Patches for different "SRXpandable" models, the SRX sounds on the MC-909 may be different from other SRXpandable models. Also note that when using SRX-01/SRX-02, only waveform data is compatible.

USB Port for Easy File Exchange
While the MC-909 is designed to operate as a stand-alone workstation, it is also at home with USB-equipped PCs. This simple interface makes it possible to import or export .WAV/AIFF files with a computer, or even exchange Standard MIDI Files with software sequencers like Cubase, Logic and Performer. The MC-909 is truly an "open-ended" system that makes creating, sharing and distributing your music easier than ever before.

Convenient SmartMedia Storage
Another welcome feature is the MC-909's SmartMedia slot. These optional memory cards can be used to store User data such as samples, Patches, Rhythm Sets and patterns -- all on ultra-thin cards that literally fit inside your shirt pocket! SmartMedia cards are readily available at most electronics stores, making them a convenient and instant way to save and load data. And if you have a USB-equipped PC, you can read SmartMedia data right from the MC-909's USB port.

Trigger Live Video with V-Link
Many creative artists have discovered the benefits of using audio and video together. With the MC-909's V-LINK feature, you can integrate video with your Groovebox sequences. First, edit the video with the Edirol DV-7PR Digital Video Workstation (sold separately). Then use V-LINK to trigger clips, perform video effects and transitions from the MC-909's sequencer and front panel along with the music. This futuristic workstation does it all!

Requires DV-7PR (sold separately) with software version 1.50 or later. zZounds is an authorized dealer of Roland products.

Parts: 16 (MAIN) + 16 (RPS)

Maximum Polyphony: 64 voices (include audio sample)

Wave ROM: 32 M Bytes (16-bit linear equivalent)

Waveforms: 693

Sampling audio format: 16-bit linear

Sampling Edit Functions: CHOP, TIME STRETCH, NORMALIZE, EMPHASIS etc

Sampling Rate: 44.1kHz

Sampling Time: Standard 16MB: mono. 180sec (stereo 90 sec) � maximum up to 272MB (standard 16MB + DIMM 256MB): mono. 51min (stereo 26min)

Loadable audio format: WAV/AIFF Save format of audio: WAV/AIFF

Preset Memory:
Patches: 800
Rhythm Sets: 72
Patterns: 215
Sample (Archived in system program for Preset Pattern 1- 5): 18
Wave Expansion Board SRX Series: 1 slot

User Memory:
Patches (internal): 256
Patches (card): 256
Rhythm Sets (internal): 128
Rhythm Sets (card):128
Patterns (internal): 200
Patterns (card): 999
Sample (internal): 2,000
Sample (card): 7,000

Effects:
MFX: MFX1: 38 Types, MFX2: 47 Types
Reverb: 4 Types
Compressor: 1 Type (Compressor and 2-band EQ)
Mastering Effect: 1 Type (3-band Compressor)

Display: 1/4 VGA LCD, 7 segments LED, 4 characters (LED)

Sequencer:
Track: 16 + Tempo/Mute Control Track
Resolution: 480 per quarter note
Tempo: 5 - 300
Song Number: Max. 50 songs
Arpeggio Sytle: Preset 128
User 128 � RPS set: 50
Pattern Set: 50 Note
Storage:Approx. 1,300,000 notes
Playable Software: Standard MIDI Files (Format 0/1)
Save: Standard MIDI Files (Format 1)

Expansion: Waveform Expansion:
SRX Wave Expansion Board: 1slot (64MB equivalent)
Sampling Memory expansion: DIMM: (128MB, 256MB)

Storage: Pattern, Patch, Sampling data storage:
Smart Media: (4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128MB (3.3V))

Controllers -- Knobs:
PITCH: 1 (FINE TUNE/COARSE TUNE)
FILTER: 2 (CUTOFF, RESONANCE)
LFO: 2 (RATE,WAVEFORM)
PATCH MACRO: 3 (FAT, RANDOM MODIFY, MATRIX CONTROL 1)
EFFECT: 3 (TYPE, C1, C2)
MASTERING: 2 (ATTACK, RELEASE)
OUTPUT VOLUME: 1
INPUT VOLUME: 1

Controllers -- Sliders:
ENVELOPE: 13 (independent for PITCH, FILTER, AMP)
PART MIXER: 8
TURNTABLE EMULATION: 1
Twin D Beam Controller: 1

Connectors:
LINE OUT: 6
LINE IN: 2
Phones: 1
MIDI: IN, OUT
Digital audio interface: IN, OUT (Optical/Coaxial)
USB: 1
AC IN: 1

Dimensions: 491 (W) x 386 (D) x 123 (H) mm 19-5/16 (W) x 15-3/16 (D) x 4-13/16 (H) in.

Weight: 6.0kg 13 lbs. 40 oz.

Accessories: Owner's Manual, AC Cables, Sample Data (Audio) CD

Roland Warranty

Roland Warranty

If you have additional warranty questions, please call the manufacturer at 323-890-3700

zZounds is an
authorized Roland dealer

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Customer Reviews

4.5 out of 5 (229 ratings) Rate and Review This Product

Read all 15 Roland MC909 64-Voice Sampling Groovebox Reviews

This review has been selected by our experts as particularly helpful. "More than just a drum machine, the Roland MC-909 sampling groovebox is more like a condensed studio."

Sound: I guess I would refer to the sound as "good Roland." It sounds like most other Roland products I've heard. It sounds better than it's predecessors such as the D2. But it is still not up to par with the Fantom series. If you like Roland sounds, it's a must. Cool Basses, good EP's, decent piano, good Drums, good synth's, cool SFX, and mediocre strings. If you're looking for quality horns, organs, or brass, I'm afraid you're outta luck. The sounds in the MC-909 are cool, but what's really cool is that you can sample your own sounds in with them. This makes my music sound at least twice as good. I always try to sample in some live drums or guitar with the rest of the instruments. To get the best sound out of this box, record digitally via S/PDIF. The signal is much cleaner. I also use a MIDI keyboard to access the sounds. I find it to be a much easier way to program beats. Feature: This box is jam packes with features. It's got an awesome sampler, a pretty good sequencer, plenty of cool sounds, and a plethora of different knobs that can help you modify your sounds. There are some really cool FX on board as well. I like how you can plug in a guitar to the input and apply the effects. I also enjoy the "mix in" feature, which allows you do play live over your beats. I find this to be a very handy feature when songwriting. I think that it's awesome that you can record automation settings to your beat. That really impressed me. The one thing that I wish you could do would be to sequence a live guitar and then loop it. I mean, you can do it, but it would require tons of sample memory space. I wish there were another way, cuz that would be a great feature. Other than that, this box has wowed me with how versatile it is. Quality: I trust Roland products. As long as I save my work, it's there when I get back. I box is heavy, strong, and durable. In my opinion, the worst thing that can happen is have it freeze up you. But this has only happened to me once or twice in two years. All you have to do is reset it and everything should be back to normal. Just make sure you save continuously so that you don't lose important data. Value: This product is worth it for the money I think that you get what you pay for on this one. It's a bunch of different things all in one, and buying those components separately would cost roughly about the same Manufacturer Support: I received good support from a knowledgeable and caring staff. The Wow Factor: It's an intriguing device, so I think that most people would at least consider purchasing one. It isn't sought after as much as a triton or motif, but I think that it still has it's charm. I think that it is an overlooked, misunderstood piece of equipment that can that can shine with the best of them if given a fair chance. Overall: I am a very satisfied customer. It does what it is supposed to do and does it well. The sounds alone were enough of a motive for me to get one. If you are a Roland fan, this is a must. If mine ever breaks, I'm gonna try to get it repaired. If I can't get it repaired I'm buying another one. And when that one breaks, I'm buying another. I never want to be without an MC-909, even if its completed outdated!

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"This is nice but it should be better, but it is damn reasonably priced!"

Sound: SOund quality is fair but it is not in the same galaxy as the JP8000, Parts of the reasons are the the ways the filter are accessed as compared to having a bad sound, you need to work to get something that is phat. MC909 should have the sounds that come with the price tag, the software needs some better OS burning capability to be able to arm the rom up with better firmware. The ASM sound is an improvement over the 505 but not as much as you might think after the years in-between Feature: Its got features, but even though you can get to everything, I would be hard pressed to call the comp a mastering processor and the keys or touch pad should come with a hammer, a bit toodigitized of a touch and then again no improvement of the basic rotation ratios of the pots. Maybe I am asking too much but the little keyboard was better in a weird way on the 505 if you close one hand and use the index finger sort of way. Oh, you mean number of additional features, I am wondering about the USB limitations...OK I am getting too granular Quality: The MC909 is not mil spec but it is groovable and will hold up uner assorted punishment. Dont slam it though or the board will crack and the etching will be wasted.The features for the 909 won outover the design aspect, so its the add ons a plenty for weaker appearance and synth engineering. Value: Good pricing, so you can see that the features really was more important than the design, to Roland. and the many Manufacturer Support: Not sure but an 8 will keep me from being a liar I always thought the boards for the 606 and for the mc909 sould be sold openly, it is very simple within The Wow Factor: I dont want 2 and If you have a little more money go and buy an Access Virus. This is a groove box, the virus is a weapon. Overall: A very cool machine that costs about what the 505 did but has all the great things the 505 lacked, except why are the audio converteror worse than my semi-pro audio card on my puter and the design is not very innovating. You can put everything her back on the same chasis of the 505 and put smaller knobs with better ratioi of attenuatiing and sweep dynamics

Style of Music: trancified classical or hendrix today what astral projection is to mozart

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Read all 15 Roland MC909 64-Voice Sampling Groovebox Reviews