The SP-606 is proof that looks can be deceiving. The SP-606 packs 4x4 velocity sensitive pads, new effects, D Beam and V-LINK control, USB capabilities (with USB audio I/F functionality), a CompactFlash card slot and S/PDIF I/O into a compact, stand alone unit, with an external sequencer sampling and new phrase generator/virtual groovebox P606 software. And that's just the beginning!

The SP-606 features stellar 8-voice, CD-quality audio with extensive slice and dice editing of samples via the onboard Chop function. Additionally, a powerful 18,000 notes 4-track MIDI sequencer with BPM Sync feature creates the ability to time stretch audio phrases. An easy-to-read graphic LCD with waveform display allows you to zoom in while editing Start and End points.

New velocity sensitive pads are laid out intuitively in a 4x4 grid for greater control over rhythm programming and phrase audio operation. Additionally, Roland's acclaimed D Beam controller and V-LINK video control features have been added to enable unique phrasing and real-time effects generation during playback. When used with Edirol's DV-7PR or P-1, you can trigger video clips in sync with playback.

There are 40 multi effects onboard, including popular SP-505 effects such as Isolator, Filter + Drive, Slicer, Reverb and Tape Echo as well as new effects and an independent Mastering Effect for final mixing. Effect settings can be added and tweaked in realtime via the SP-606's front panel knobs, or you can re-sample to another pad in realtime.

The External Sequence Sampling feature allows you to capture audio loops generated by MIDI-based machines with ease. Simply connect the SP-606 to an external MIDI workstation, such as the MC-909, and press the Sampling button. Using MIDI information, the SP-606 is able to detect the start and end points of the audio loop and perform a perfect capture.

A CompactFlash memory slot with up to 512MB capacity is available for storing audio samples and for importing/exporting .wav/.aiff files. An onboard USB port facilitates transfer of MIDI data, audio files & audio stream downloading as well as .wav/.aiff files. In combination, the CompactFlash and USB port enable importing or exporting of .wav/.aiff files without requiring a separate CompactFlash reader/writer. Additionally, a coaxial S/PDIF I/O is included.

The SP-606 comes bundled with powerful P606 software from Cakewalk, eliminating the need for a static CD library. PC-based P606 software functions as a phrase generator/virtual groovebox, integrating with the SP-606 via the USB MIDI/Audio interface. Three kinds of software synthesizers - analog modeling, groovesynth and ACIDized file player - are offered, as well as a loop sequencer, eight effect plug-ins and onscreen control over Mix. As a master controller, the SP-606 can seamlessly import, edit and playback P606 tracks.