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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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 two 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.

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.

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 timestretching), while Twin D Beams use an infrared beam of light for triggering samples, tweaking filters and more.