Roland - CR-78 | Software Rhythm Composer

Iconic rhythm. Reinvented for today.

Step back into the late 1970s, when the Roland CR‑78 changed the course of music production forever. As one of the first programmable rhythm machines, it gave artists unprecedented control and paired that flexibility with a distinctive analog sound that stood apart from anything that came before it. Its warm, textured tones powered era-defining tracks and became a staple in early synth-pop and new wave. Now the CR‑78 returns in stunning detail with the speed, precision, and creative range demanded by modern production—delivering timeless sound for retro authenticity or futuristic grooves.

+ Highlights

ACB authenticity—component-level modeling of the original CR-78 sound and response
Deep editing—per-instrument tuning, level, decay, pan, and more for precise voicing
Advanced sequencing—variable sub-steps, accents, shuffle, last step, and more
Cross-genre ready—from retro textures to futuristic beats, the CR-78 adapts to any style
High-definition interface—resizable, high-DPI UI with woodgrain or black trim skins
Preset library—curated kits and patterns spanning classic and contemporary styles
DAW integration—AU, VST3, and AAX support with tempo sync, automation, and drag-and-drop pattern arrangement

The rhythm that changed everything.

Introduced in 1978, the Roland CR‑78 marked a turning point in music technology, bringing user programmability to the standard preset-based drum machine. Its warm bass drum, crisp snare, silky cymbals, and unique percussion like congas, bongos, and guiro became the heartbeat of genre-shaping hits, inspiring artists across pop, rock, and electronic music. More than a drum machine, it was a cultural milestone with a human quality that still resonates today.

Classic tracks featuring the CR-78 ▼

Sound that feels alive.

The soul of the CR‑78 lies in its analog circuitry—the way tones bloom, accents breathe, and rhythms flow. Our Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology recreates these nuances at the component level, modeling every detail for unmatched realism. From lush tambourines to deep kick drums, every sound responds just like the original, with the subtle variations and organic movement that made the CR‑78 a studio favorite. And while ACB preserves this character, it also unlocks expanded tone editing, letting you shape sounds far beyond the hardware’s limits—all without sacrificing authenticity.

Timeless design. Modern workflow.

The CR‑78 was as beautiful as it was groundbreaking, and that spirit lives on in a modern plug-in that honors its iconic look. Every detail of the original layout is here, complete with optional woodgrain or black trim, now enhanced with high‑definition graphics and a fully resizable interface for any display. Dedicated views for tone shaping and pattern sequencing keep advanced features clear and accessible. The design feels instantly familiar and period‑correct yet optimized for today—a perfect blend of vintage charm and contemporary convenience.

Start with the originals. Create what’s next.

Jumpstart your creativity with curated kits and pattern presets that capture the iconic CR-78 sound and explore forward-looking styles. All the original patterns are included for authentic grooves, ready to use or transform. Treat them as launchpads, then tweak the parameters and reshape the rhythms to fit your production. Whether you want vintage character or something completely new, these presets quickly put ideas into motion.

From vintage tone to bold new beats.

Go far beyond vintage presets with a full suite of sound-shaping tools. Each instrument channel includes dedicated controls for tuning, decay, pan, and volume, plus advanced parameters like Attack for the kick and Snappy for the snare to fine-tune transients and character. Gain staging, flexible output routing, and a global balance control make it easy to craft mix-ready grooves or push into bold new sonic territory.

Precision rhythm.

Shape grooves with an advanced step sequencer that greatly surpasses the CR-78’s simple programmability. Each instrument lane offers independent shuffle and last-step control for engaging rhythmic variation. Detailed step modes let you add sub-steps (×2, ×3, ×4), adjustable flams, and alternate or weak hits for expressive nuance. With A/B pattern variations, mutes, solos, and intuitive grid editing, you have the precision to craft rhythms that feel alive and perfectly tailored to your track.

Built to fit your workflow.

Drop the CR‑78 into any DAW with AU, VST3, and AAX support. Host tempo sync keeps patterns locked to your project, while parameter automation makes it easy to shape movement and feel. Kits and patterns save with projects for instant recall, while drag‑and‑drop MIDI or rendered audio places grooves directly on the timeline for quick arranging.

Try the CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer today.

The CR‑78 is available with a Lifetime Key purchase or through a Roland Cloud Ultimate membership. Start with a free 30‑day all‑access trial to explore the CR‑78 plus a wide range of instruments, sounds, and tools for computer‑based music production—including vintage Roland software instruments, GALAXIAS, ZENOLOGY, Sound Packs, Wave Expansions, and Zenbeats.

Join Roland Cloud

Try the CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer for free with a Roland Cloud 30-day trial membership.

Specifications
Maximum Polyphony: 11 voices
Sampling Frequency: 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz, 176.4 kHz, 192 kHz
Step Sequencer: 11 instrument parts
16 steps per 1 measure
2 (A, B) variations per 1 pattern
INST tones: BASS DRUM
SNARE DRUM
LOW CONGA
LOW/HIGH BONGO
COWBELL
RIM SHOT/CLAVES
MARACAS
HIHAT
CYMBAL
TAMBOURINE (1/2)
GUIRO (1/2)
* Slashed instruments are selectable.
Memories per bank: 128 patterns
128 memories
* User can make new user banks.
Plug-In Formats: VST 3.7
AU
AAX
System Requirements (macOS™)
Minimum Operating System: macOS 13
Host Application: VST version: VST 3.7 compatible
Audio Units (AU) version: V2 Audio Units compatible
AAX compatible
CPU: Intel® Core(TM) i5 or better
Apple Silicon
RAM: 2 GB or more
Storage Space: 300 MB or more
Display resolution and Colors: 1280 x 800 dots or higher, 16.7 million colors or more
Other: You'll need Internet connectivity to Authenticate this software.
System Requirements (Windows®)
Minimum Operating System: Microsoft® Windows® 11
* This does not work on the virtual machines.
Host Application: VST version: VST 3.7 compatible
AAX Compatible
CPU: Intel® Core™ i5 or better
RAM: 2 GB or more
Storage Space: 200 MB or more
Display resolution and Colors: 1280 x 800 dots or higher, 24 bits Full Color or more
Other: You'll need Internet connectivity to Authenticate this software.
* Although Roland has tested numerous configurations, and has determined that on average, a computer system similar to that described above will permit normal operation of this software, Roland cannot guarantee that a given computer can be used satisfactorily with this software based solely on the fact that it meets the above requirements. This is because there are too many other variables that may influence the processing environment, including differences in motherboard design and the particular combination of other devices involved. * Roland and BOSS are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Roland Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. * Company names and product names appearing in this document are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective owners. * VST is a registered trademark of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH.

Video Library

CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer

The CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer brings an iconic Roland instrument into the future. Designed for modern production, it delivers expressive rhythm programming with unmistakable analog character.

A Few Minutes with Cornelius

Keigo Oyamada, aka Cornelius, reflects on YMO’s influence, his bond with Ryuichi Sakamoto, and his new album, Refractions.Read more…

Listening Guide: Electronic Film Scores

For decades, electronic film scores have brought groundbreaking sonic atmosphere to the cinematic experience. Explore ten outstanding examples.Read more…

Sound Behind the Song: “Nightclubbing” by Iggy Pop

Find out how David Bowie and Iggy Pop created a slapback-saturated swing that takes the listener on a hazy nighttime stroll through Berlin.Read more…

CR-78: The Whole Story

Before the TR-808 and TR-909 changed hip-hop and dance, the CR-78 changed pop. Here's the story of the last Roland organ-top rhythm machine.Read more…

Label Spotlight: Dais Records

Dais sits at the intersection of post-punk, industrial, ambient, and other genres. Explore the label and its collab with Roland Lifestyle.Read more…

A Few Minutes with Gerald V. Casale of Devo

Devo's cult status remains indelible. Co-founder Gerald V. Casale reminisces about the band and its longstanding association with Roland.Read more…

Careers in Music: Steve Levine on Scoring for Video Games

The legendary producer shares details about his workflow, describes the differences between working on games and albums, and offers tips for young composers.Read more…

A Few Minutes with Howard Jones

The legendary songwriter and performer discusses Roland synthesizers, positive thinking, and music’s power to transform.Read more…

Listening Guide: Synth Pop

Synthesizers in music production brought about a massive cultural shift. Take a trip into this groundbreaking genre.Read more…

Careers in Music: Rusty Egan

Drummer, DJ, and electronic visionary Rusty Egan helped shape Britain's New Romantic pulse—from Visage's "Fade to Grey" to the Blitz Club.Read more…

Sound Behind the Song: “Heart of Glass” by Blondie

Sometimes, a song’s intro transports us back to a specific time. Learn how the CR-78 formed the playful rhythmic bed for “Heart of Glass.”Read more…

Downloads

Support

If you have questions about operating your Roland product, please check our Knowledge Base for answers to the most common questions.
You can also contact our Product Support through Roland Backstage.
In addition, we have a library of Owner’s Manuals and Support Documents that you can download and reference.

Owner's Manuals

[English] CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer Owner's Manual [PDF]