Roland MC-09 User Manual

Owner’s Manual

201a

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” and “IMPORTANT NOTES” (p. 2, 3; p. 4, 5). These sections provide important information concerning the proper operation of the unit. Additionally, in order to feel assured that you have gained a good grasp of every feature provided by your new unit, Owner’s manual should be read in its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.

Listening to the demo performance

The MC-09 contains a demo performance. This demo also contains the steps of the procedure by which the demo performance was created, along with various settings. By playing back the demo performance you can learn about the features of the MC-09.

fig.0-1_70

Hold down the [PROCESS PATCH] button and press the [ ](STOP) button.

The MC-09 first takes you through all the steps that were taken in creating the demo performance, then the demo performance begins automatically.

Thanks to its record of the procedures you follow, and the settings you make (p. 39).

230

* SmartMedia is a trademark of Toshiba Corp.

202

Process Patch

feature, the MC-09 is able to keep a

USING THE UNIT SAFELY

Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of death or severe injury should the unit be used improperly.

Used for instructions intended to alert the user to the risk of injury or material damage should the unit be used improperly.

* Material damage refers to damage or

other adverse effects caused with respect to the home and all its furnishings, as well to domestic animals or pets.

001

• Before using this unit, make sure to read the instructions below, and the Owner’s Manual.

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002c

• Do not open (or modify in any way) the unit or its AC adaptor.

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003

• Do not attempt to repair the unit, or replace parts within it (except when this manual provides specific instructions directing you to do so). Refer all servicing to your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the "Information" page.

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004

• Never use or store the unit in places that are:

• Subject to temperature extremes (e.g., direct

sunlight in an enclosed vehicle, near a heating duct, on top of heat-generating equipment); or are

• Damp (e.g., baths, washrooms, on wet floors);

or are

• Humid; or are

• Exposed to rain; or are

• Dusty; or are

• Subject to high levels of vibration.

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007

• Make sure you always have the unit placed so it is level and sure to remain stable. Never place it on stands that could wobble, or on inclined surfaces.

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008c

• Be sure to use only the AC adaptor supplied with the unit. Also, make sure the line voltage at the installation matches the input voltage specified on the AC adaptor’s body. Other AC adaptors may use a different polarity, or be designed for a different voltage, so their use could result in damage, malfunction, or electric shock.

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The symbol alerts the user to important instructions or warnings.The specific meaning of the symbol is determined by the design contained within the triangle. In the case of the symbol at left, it is used for general cautions, warnings, or alerts to danger.

The symbol alerts the user to items that must never be carried out (are forbidden). The specific thing that must not be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the unit must never be disassembled.

The ● symbol alerts the user to things that must be

carried out. The specific thing that must be done is indicated by the design contained within the circle. In the case of the symbol at left, it means that the powercord plug must be unplugged from the outlet.

009

• Do not excessively twist or bend the power cord, nor place heavy objects on it. Doing so can damage the cord, producing severed elements and short circuits. Damaged cords are fire and shock hazards!

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010

• This unit, either alone or in combination with an amplifier and headphones or speakers, may be capable of producing sound levels that could cause permanent hearing loss. Do not operate for a long period of time at a high volume level, or at a level that is uncomfortable. If you experience any hearing loss or ringing in the ears, you should immediately stop using the unit, and consult an audiologist.

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011

• Do not allow any objects (e.g., flammable material, coins, pins); or liquids of any kind (water, soft drinks, etc.) to penetrate the unit.

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012c

• Immediately turn the power off, remove the AC adaptor from the outlet, and request servicing by your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the "Information" page when:

• The AC adaptor or the power-supply cord has

been damaged; or

• Objects have fallen into, or liquid has been

spilled onto the unit; or

• The unit has been exposed to rain (or otherwise

has become wet); or

• The unit does not appear to operate normally or

exhibits a marked change in performance.

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013

• In households with small children, an adult should provide supervision until the child is capable of following all the rules essential for the safe operation of the unit.

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014

• Protect the unit from strong impact. (Do not drop it!)

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015

• Do not force the unit’s power-supply cord to share an outlet with an unreasonable number of other devices. Be especially careful when using extension cords—the total power used by all devices you have connected to the extension cord’s outlet must never exceed the power rating (watts/amperes) for the extension cord. Excessive loads can cause the insulation on the cord to heat up and eventually melt through.

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016

• Before using the unit in a foreign country, consult with your retailer, the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.

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101b

• The unit and the AC adaptor should be located so their location or position does not interfere with their proper ventilation.

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102d

• Always grasp only the plug or the body of the AC adaptor when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.

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103b

• Whenever the unit is to remain unused for an extended period of time, disconnect the AC adaptor.

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104

• Try to prevent cords and cables from becoming entangled. Also, all cords and cables should be placed so they are out of the reach of children.

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106

• Never climb on top of, nor place heavy objects on the unit.

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107d

• Never handle the AC adaptor body, or its plugs, with wet hands when plugging into, or unplugging from, an outlet or this unit.

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108b

• Before moving the unit, disconnect the AC adaptor and all cords coming from external devices.

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109b

• Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and unplug the AC adaptor from the outlet (p.12 ).

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110b

• Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning in your area, disconnect the AC adaptor from the outlet.

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118

• Should you remove screws, make sure to put them in a safe place out of children's reach, so there is no chance of them being swallowed accidentally.

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IMPORTANT NOTES

291a

In addition to the items listed under “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” on pages 2 – 3, please read and observe the following:

Power Supply

301

• Do not use this unit on the same power circuit with any device that will generate line noise (such as an electric motor or variable lighting system).

302

• The AC adaptor will begin to generate heat after long hours of consecutive use. This is normal, and is not a cause for concern.

307

• Before connecting this unit to other devices, turn off the power to all units. This will help prevent malfunctions and/or damage to speakers or other devices.

Placement

351

• Using the unit near power amplifiers (or other equipment containing large power transformers) may induce hum. To alleviate the problem, change the orientation of this unit; or move it farther away from the source of interference.

352a

• This device may interfere with radio and television reception. Do not use this device in the vicinity of such receivers.

352b

• Noise may be produced if wireless communications devices, such as cell phones, are operated in the vicinity of this unit. Such noise could occur when receiving or initiating a call, or while conversing. Should you experience such problems, you should relocate such wireless devices so they are at a greater distance from this unit, or switch them off.

354a

• Do not expose the unit to direct sunlight, place it near devices that radiate heat, leave it inside an enclosed vehicle, or otherwise subject it to temperature extremes. Excessive heat can deform or discolor the unit.

355

• To avoid possible breakdown, do not use the unit in a wet area, such as an area exposed to rain or other moisture.

552

• Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents of data that was stored in another MIDI device (e.g., a sequencer) once it has been lost. Roland Corporation assumes no liability concerning such loss of data.

553

• Use a reasonable amount of care when using the unit’s

buttons, sliders, or other controls; and when using its jacks and connectors. Rough handling can lead to malfunctions.

556

• When connecting / disconnecting all cables, grasp the

connector itself—never pull on the cable. This way you will avoid causing shorts, or damage to the cable’s internal elements.

558a

• To avoid disturbing your neighbors, try to keep the unit’s

volume at reasonable levels. You may prefer to use headphones, so you do not need to be concerned about those around you (especially when it is late at night).

559a

• When you need to transport the unit, package it in the box

(including padding) that it came in, if possible. Otherwise, you will need to use equivalent packaging materials.

562

• Use a cable from Roland to make the connection. If using

some other make of connection cable, please note the following precautions.

• Some connection cables contain resistors. Do not use cables that incorporate resistors for connecting to this unit. The use of such cables can cause the sound level to be extremely low, or impossible to hear. For information on cable specifications, contact the manufacturer of the cable.

Before Using Memory Cards

704

• Carefully insert the memory card all the way in—until it is firmly in place.

Maintenance

401a

• For everyday cleaning wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth or one that has been slightly dampened with water. To remove stubborn dirt, use a cloth impregnated with a mild, non-abrasive detergent. Afterwards, be sure to wipe the unit thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.

402

• Never use benzine, thinners, alcohol or solvents of any kind, to avoid the possibility of discoloration and/or deformation.

Additional Precautions

551

• Please be aware that the contents of memory can be

irretrievably lost as a result of a malfunction, or the improper operation of the unit. To protect yourself against the risk of loosing important data, we recommend that you periodically save a backup copy of important data you have stored in the unit’s memory in another MIDI device (e.g., a sequencer).

The surface without gold contacts must face upward.

705

• Never touch the terminals of the memory card. Also, avoid getting the terminals dirty.

851

• Unauthorized recording, distribution, sale, lending, public performance, broadcasting, or the like, in whole or in part, of a work (musical composition, video, broadcast, public performance, or the like) whose copyright is held by a third party is prohibited by law.

853

• Do not use this unit for purposes that could infringe on a copyright held by a third party. We assume no responsibility whatsoever with regard to any infringements of third-party copyrights arising through your use of this unit.

Important Notes

Saving data

Saving patterns

After you’ve edited a pattern or recorded in the step sequencer, you must save your work in the MC-09’s internal

user memory, or on a memory card if you want to keep it. If you turn off the power without saving your work, your settings and recorded material will be lost.

• Saving a pattern .......................................................... (p. 30)

• Saving an effect pattern .............................................(p. 48)

Saving a loop ..................(p. 59)

After you record (capture) a loop, you must save it to a

memory card if you want to keep it. If you turn off the power without doing this, your settings and recorded material will be lost.

Saving a process patch....(p. 39)

The MC-09 lets you save the sequence of steps you’ve used in creating a loop, together with the pattern settings that you used at that time. This is called a Process Patch.

When you play back a process patch that you’ve saved, the MC-09 will carry out the same process as when you created the loop, and the loop will be recreated. In other words, a process patch is somewhat like a keyboard macro on a personal computer.

Restoring the factory settings (Factory Reset)

By carrying out a Factory Reset, the following settings of the MC-09 are restored to their original factory-set condition.

• System settings

• All patterns you’ve saved (User Patterns)

* Once you execute a Factory Reset, all the settings you’ve saved

will be lost, being replaced by the settings your unit originally had when it left the factory. If internal memory contains important data that you want to keep, you must save it on a memory card (p. 59), or to an external MIDI sequencer via bulk dump (p. 65).

1. Press the [SETUP] button.

2. Press the [INC] or [DEC] button until the display

indicates “ ”.

3. Press the [ENTER] button.

The display will show “ ”.

4. To execute the factory reset, press the [WRITE] button.

While the factory settings are being restored, “ ” will appear in the display. When the factory reset is finished, you’re returned to where you were in step 2.

* If you decide not to restore the factory settings, press the

[SETUP] button or the [EXIT] button.

About the display

The MC-09’s display shows letters and numerals as follows.

fig.03-1

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N

capital letter

small letter

O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

capital letter small letter

1 -12 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0

* Never turn off the power while appears in the

display. Doing so will damage the system.

5. Press the [SETUP] button to return to the previous

display.

About the included CD

The CD contains loop samples. Since the disc is in CDEXTRA format, you can either play back the samples on a CD player, or use your computer to handle the data as EXTRA TRACK computer data.

801

• Avoid touching or scratching the shiny underside (encoded surface) of the disc. Damaged or dirty CD discs may not be read properly. Keep your discs clean using a commercially available CD cleaner.

981b

• Use of the CD supplied with this product for any purpose other than private, personal enjoyment without the permission of the copyright holder is prohibited by law. Additionally, this data must not be copied, nor used in a secondary copyrighted work without the permission of the copyright holder.

IMPORTANT NOTES ...............................................................................4

Saving data..................................................................................................................................................5

About the display.......................................................................................................................................5

Restoring the factory settings (Factory Reset)........................................................................................5

About the included CD.............................................................................................................................. 5

Contents ..................................................................................................6

Names of things and what they do........................................................8

Main features and uses ........................................................................11

Main features.............................................................................................................................................11

Ways to use the MC-09............................................................................................................................ 11

Making connections .............................................................................12

Turning the power on/off....................................................................................................................... 13

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer.......................................................14

What is a pattern?.....................................................................................................................................14

Playing .......................................................................................................................................................15

Modifying the sound................................................................................................................................20

Creating a phrase (Recording)................................................................................................................ 23

Saving a pattern........................................................................................................................................ 30

Creating and playing a loop.................................................................31

What is a loop?.......................................................................................................................................... 31

The process of creating a loop ................................................................................................................ 32

Recording (capturing)..............................................................................................................................33

Playback.....................................................................................................................................................35

Changing the settings of part 1...............................................................................................................37

Combining several parts into one (Loop Merge).................................................................................38

Erasing the contents of a part ................................................................................................................. 39

Saving the steps by which you created a loop (Process Patch)..........................................................39

Applying an effect.................................................................................41

Specifying the effect routing................................................................................................................... 41

Turning the effect on/off.........................................................................................................................42

Selecting an effect pattern ....................................................................................................................... 42

Using the knobs to adjust the effect settings........................................................................................43

Changing the effect type..........................................................................................................................44

Creating consecutive changes in an effect (Effect Control)................................................................45

Saving your effect settings ...................................................................................................................... 48

Changing the way in which a loop plays (Loop Control)..................49

What is Loop Control?.............................................................................................................................49

Using loop control for realtime performance.......................................................................................51

Playing back a loop with Loop Control ................................................................................................ 53

Making loop control settings..................................................................................................................54

Saving your loop control settings ..........................................................................................................56

About the tempo ...................................................................................57

Checking the standard tempo ................................................................................................................57

Setting the tempo manually....................................................................................................................57

Setting the tempo with the [TAP] button.............................................................................................. 57

Contents

Using a memory card ...........................................................................58

Memory cards usable with the MC-09..................................................................................................58

Cautions when using a memory card....................................................................................................58

Formatting a memory card ..................................................................................................................... 58

Saving a loop to a memory card............................................................................................................. 59

Loading a loop ..........................................................................................................................................59

Deleting a saved loop from memory card............................................................................................59

Saving all settings of the MC-09 to a memory card............................................................................. 60

Loading MC-09 settings...........................................................................................................................60

Deleting saved MC-09 settings from a memory card..........................................................................60

Connecting external MIDI devices.......................................................61

Setting the MIDI channel......................................................................................................................... 61

Using the MC-09 as the master............................................................................................................... 61

Using the MC-09 as the slave.................................................................................................................. 63

Using the MC-09 with your computer .................................................................................................. 64

Saving the MC-09 settings to an external sequencer (Bulk Dump)...................................................65

How the MC-09 is organized ................................................................66

What knobs do ......................................................................................67

Parameter list........................................................................................68

Troubleshooting....................................................................................72

Error messages.....................................................................................73

Specifications........................................................................................75

Sound List .............................................................................................76

Index.......................................................................................................82

Operation map.......................................................................................84

Blank Chart............................................................................................86

Names of things and what they do

Front Panel

fig.04-1

Common Section

1. OUTPUT Knob.................................. (p. 13)

This knob adjusts the overall volume.

2. [SHIFT] Button

This button is used in conjunction with other buttons.

3. [SETUP] Button

This button is used for making settings concerned with the tuning, MIDI, etc.

4. [REST] Button/[ACCENT] Button

[REST] Button.................................................(p. 26), (p. 27)

This button inputs a rest while recording.

[ACCENT] Button............................................(p. 26), (p. 28)

When you hold down the [SHIFT] button and press this button while recording, an accent will be added to the step you are currently inputting.

5. [TIE] Button/[SLIDE] Button

[TIE] Button....................................................(p. 26), (p. 27)

This button inputs a tie while recording.

[SLIDE] Button............................................................(p. 26)

When you hold down the [SHIFT] button and press this button while recording, the Slide-on function will be turned on.

13 14 15 16

24 25 26

27 29

28 30

6. [SCALE] Button..................................(p. 24)

This button selects the note value unit (step time) when recording.

16th notes: indicator dark 8th note triplets: indicator lit

7. [KEYBOARD] Button..........................(p. 18)

Press this button so the indicator lights when you want to use the step [1]–[16] buttons as a keyboard (keyboard pads).

8. Step [1]–[16] Buttons/Keyboard Pads

Step [1]–[16] Buttons

Use these buttons to specify steps of the sequencer.

Keyboard Pads............................................................(p. 18)

The buttons can be used as a keyboard.

DSP Synthesizer Section

9. Display

Various information such as pattern numbers and parameter values will be shown in this display.

10. [DISPLAY] Display Button

This button switches the values that are shown in the display. Each time you press the button the display will cycle as follows.

Indicator dark: Pattern number BPM: Tempo (p. 57) OCT: Octave Shift setting TONE/TYPE: Sound (tone) used by the pattern, or the

type of effect

Names of things and what they do

11. C1 Knob, C2 Knob, C3 Knob, CUTOFF/BD Knob, RESO/SD Knob, DECAY/HH Knob

Use these knobs to adjust various parameters such as cutoff frequency, resonance, and drum volume.

* The function of the knobs will depend on the operating mode.

For details, refer to “What knobs do” (p. 67).

12. [INC], [DEC] Buttons

Use these knobs to switch patterns or to set various values.

13. [LEAD] Button................................. (p. 14)

Press this button so the indicator lights when you want to play melodies or solos using a pattern from the LEAD group.

14. [BASS] Button ................................ (p. 14)

Press this button so the indicator lights when you want to play bass using a pattern from the BASS group.

15. [RHYTHM] Button........................... (p. 14)

Press this button so the indicator lights when you want to play drums or percussion using a pattern from the RHYTHM group.

16. [EFFECTS] Button ............................ (p. 41)

Press this button so the indicator lights when you want to apply effects to a loop or audio signal.

21. [STATUS] Buttons............................(p. 36)

These buttons switch each part between muted and unmuted.

The indicators show the status of each track. Lit: play Blinking: don’t play (mute) Dark: no sound is recorded

22. [SEL] Buttons

Use these buttons to select the part(s) to which you want to apply an effect or Loop Merge.

23. [LOOP MERGE] Button.....................(p. 38)

This button lets you merge audio loops (“bounce recording”).

24. [EDIT 1] Button ...............................(p. 37)

Use this button to edit the settings of part 1.

25. [PAN] Button..................................(p. 36)

Use this button to set the pan (stereo position).

26. [LOOP CTRL] Button ........................(p. 49)

Use this button to change the way in which the loop is played.

Common Section

17. [LINE IN] Button............................. (p. 19)

Press this button so the indicator lights when you want to input an audio signal.

If you want to mix the audio signal with the pattern playback, press the [SHIFT] button at the same time (p. 19).

18. LEVEL Knob.................................... (p. 13)

This knob adjusts the volume of the audio signal or DSP synthesizer.

When you are capturing a loop, this knob adjusts the capture volume.

19. [CAPTURE] Button .......................... (p. 33)

This button records (captures) an audio signal.

Audio Looper Section

20. Part Volume Sliders....................... (p. 35)

These sliders adjust the volume for each part of the audio looper.

27. [WRITE] Button

Use this button to save sounds, effects, or loop control settings.

28. [PROCESS PATCH] Button................(p. 39)

Use this button to save or load a process patch (p. 39).

29. [ENTER] Button

This button finalizes the pattern you select or a parameter value you edit.

30. [ ](SEQ REC) Button

Use this button to record, to make effect settings, or to cyclically modify a loop.

31. [EXIT] Button

Pressed to cancel settings and other various operations.

32. [ ](STOP) Button

Press this button to stop playback for a pattern or loop.

33. [ ](PLAY) Button

Press this button to play back a pattern or loop.

34. [TAP] Button...................................(p. 57)

You can set the tempo by pressing this button at the desired interval.

Names of things and what they do

Rear Panel

fig.04-2

12345678

910

1. POWER Switch

This switch turns the power on/off.

2. DC IN Jack

Connect the included AC adaptor to this jack.

* Use only the AC adaptor that was included with the MC-09.

3. INPUT L, R Jacks

These jacks input audio signals. Connect your CD player, MD player, or synthesizer to these jacks.

4. OUTPUT L, R Jacks

These jacks output audio signals. Connect these jacks to your powered speaker system, mixer, or amp.

5. PHONES Jack

You can connect a pair of headphones to this jack.

6. MIDI IN Jack

This jack receives MIDI messages from an external MIDI device.

7. MIDI OUT Jack

This jack transmits MIDI messages to an external MIDI device.

8. MEMORY CARD Slot

You can insert a separately sold memory card into this slot.

Card protector

Side view

9. Security Slot

See the following; http://www.kensington.com/

10. Ground terminal

In some cases, depending on the environment in which the unit is installed, the surface of the panel may sometimes feel rough and grainy. This is due to an infinitesimal electrical charge, which is absolutely harmless. However, if you are concerned about this, connect the ground terminal (see figure) with an external ground. When the unit is grounded, a slight hum may occur, depending on the particulars of your installation. If you are unsure of the connection method, contact the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the “Information” page.

The MC-09 provides a card protector to prevent theft of the memory card. To install the card protector, use the following procedure.

1. Use a screwdriver to remove both screws that are at

either side of the memory card slot.

2. Insert the memory card into the memory card slot.

3. Use the screws to fasten the card protector as shown below.

Unsuitable places for connection

• Water pipes (may result in shock or electrocution)

• Gas pipes (may result in fire or explosion)

• Telephone-line ground or lightning rod (may be dangerous in the event of lightning)

Main features and uses

Main features

4-part audio looper

The MC-09’s audio looper is like a small sampler designed for creating looped phrases. You can capture (record) an audio signal into each of the four parts.

You can also use the merge function to combine two or more parts, to create polyphonic loops.

* For each part, the maximum recording time is six seconds

(approximately two measures at BPM = 80).

A new Loop Control function

By recording Loop Control settings in the step sequencer, you can produce a wide range of variations from a single loop.

Pitch playback

You can change the pitch of the loop playback. This lets you play the loop at pitches different from the original pitch.

Trigger playback

Parts you specify can be played back in sequence. This lets you create performances that are similar to what you would obtain by striking the pads of a sampler.

Divide times 16 playback

You can divide a loop into pieces, and then reassemble it and play it back. This lets you create new phrases that are completely different than the original loop.

DSP synthesizer

The MC-09 has a built-in synthesizer that gives you a wide range of sounds (tones) in categories such as Lead, Bass, and Rhythm, as well as four different effects (Filter, Isolator, Phaser, and Slicer).

A mode that simulates the vintage synthesizers often used in Techno styles has also been included.

(The MC-09 can also be used as a synthesizer module.)

16-step sequencer

Not only can you record the notes you input as performance data, but you can also spice up your performances by using the effect controller to cyclically change the effect settings, or by using back.

loop control

to change the way a loop is played

Process Patch function

The MC-09’s “Process Patch” function can remember and play back actions concerned with things such as the selection of a pattern (a sound together with a phrase), or the capture of an audio loop. For example, all the steps and settings involved in creating a loop can be saved as a Process Patch. The next time you turn on the power, you can load this to reproduce the same state as before.

This is a convenient way to store the procedure by which a loop was created, or to set up for a live performance.

Save loops to memory card

Loops and patterns you create can be saved on a separately sold memory card.

Ways to use the MC-09

Here are some ways in which you can use the MC-09. Your creativity will take you even further!

As a DSP synthesizer

• Playing the MC-09 from the keyboard pads...........(p. 18)

• Playing the MC-09 from an external MIDI device used as

a master keyboard.......................................................(p. 63)

Use sound-on-sound to create loops

Combine a performance from a CD or MD connected to the INPUT jacks with the sounds of the internal DSP sequencer

to create sound-on-sound.................................................. (p. 32)

Use loops in a live performance

• Record hip-hop or techno loops in each part, and use the

step [1]–[4] buttons to play them..............................(p. 52)

• Change the playback pitch........................................(p. 51)

• Divide a loop and change the playback order of the parts

.......................................................................................(p. 52)

Use the monophonic synthesizer to create polyphonic loops

• Layer performances of the internal DSP synthesizer

(Loop Merge) to create polyphonic loops ...............(p. 38)

• Adjust the pan of each track to create 3D output... (p. 36)

Audio input jacks (INPUT jacks)

Since the MC-09 provides INPUT jacks, you can combine the MC-09’s sounds with performances (audio signals) from another device such as a CD, MD, or keyboard.

• Capture (record) a performance from an external device, and loop it

• Mix an audio signal with the sounds of the MC-09

• Apply effects to an audio signal

Use the MC-09 as an effects processor

• Cyclically modifying the effect settings...................(p. 45)

• Applying effects to audio from a CD or MD..........(p. 41)

Making connections

fig.1-1

External MIDI device

(Sequencer, Keyboard, etc.)

MIDI

MIDI OUT

OUTPUT

CD/MD player,

Keyboard, etc.

AC cord

AC adaptor

OUTPUT

INPUT

Stereo headphones

Hard disk recorder, Speaker with built-in amp, Keyboard amp, etc.

• To prevent malfunction and/or damage to speakers or other devices, always turn down the volume, and turn off the power on all devices before making any connections.

• When connecting other equipment to the INPUT or OUTPUT jacks, be sure to use cables that do not have a built-in resistor (e.g., the Roland PCS series).

Turning the power on/off

Turning the power on

• Once the connections have been completed (p. 12), turn on power to your various devices in the order specified. By turning on devices in the wrong order, you risk causing malfunction and/or damage to speakers and other devices.

• This unit is equipped with a protection circuit. A brief interval (a few seconds) after power up is required before the unit will operate normally.

• Turn the volume down before you turn on the power. You may hear sound from the headphones when you turn on the power, but this is not a malfunction.

Making connections

2 3 4 5

Make sure that the volume controls of the MC-09 and all connected devices are turned to the minimum position.

Turn on the power of the device connected to the INPUT jacks.

Turn on the power of the MC-09.

Turn on the power of the device connected to the OUTPUT jacks.

Adjust the volume of all devices.

On the MC-09, the volume is affected by three types of knob or control. You will need to adjust these as appropriate.

OUTPUT knob: This adjusts the overall volume of the MC-09. LEVEL knob: This adjusts the volume from the device connected to

the INPUT jacks and the volume of the DSP synthesizer.

Part volume sliders: These adjust the volume of each audio looper part.

* In some cases, there will be no sound if any of these knobs are set to the minimum

position.

Turning the power off

To turn off the power, make sure that the volume controls of the MC-09 and all connected devices are turned to the minimum position, and turn off the power of each device in the opposite order of that used when you turned them on.

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

—Playing and creating patterns

What is a pattern?

On the MC-09, a “pattern” is a phrase of one or two measures together with a sound to play that phrase. You can use the [ ](PLAY) button to play back a phrase, or use the keyboard pads to play manually.

Depending on how a pattern is played or the sound it uses, the patterns of the MC-09 are organized into three groups: LEAD, BASS, and RHYTHM. Each group contains preset patterns. You can also store original patterns that you create on a user memory (user patterns) or a memory card (p. 30).

LEAD: Patterns suitable for playing melodies BASS: Patterns suitable for playing bass RHYTHM: Patterns suitable for playing drums or percussion

A sound used by a pattern in the LEAD or BASS group is called a Tone, while the sounds used by a pattern in the RHYTHM group are called a Rhythm set. A rhythm set contains numerous Rhythm Tones, such as snare drum, hi-hat, and bass drum.

fig.2-1_85

For details on patterns, refer to“Sound List” (p. 76).

Preset Patterns Your Own Patterns

LEAD

Tone

Phrase

BASS

Tone

Phrase

RHYTHM

Rhythm set

P01

P40

P01

P60

P01

100

User Memory

(User Patterns)

U01

Memory Card

C01

Phrase

Playing

b b

Playing a pattern

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

2 3

Plays the phrase in the pattern.

Turn on the power, and adjust the volume of each device in your setup (p. 13).

Make sure that the [LEAD] button’s indicator is lit.

Make sure that the following appears in the display.

This display tells you that pattern “P01” of the LEAD group is selected.

fig.2-2_80

Pattern numberP: Preset pattern U: User pattern C: saved pattern in memory card

If you press the [ ]

utton when a loop has

een recorded in the Audio Looper, the pattern and the loop will play back together. If you want to play only the pattern, you can lower the volume of the audio loop part (p. 35) or mute it (p. 36).

Press the [ ](PLAY) button to play back the pattern.

The pattern will play repeatedly until it stops.

* If you press the [ ](PLAY) button after you’ve stopped playback midway through

the pattern, playback will begin again from the beginning of the pattern. It is not possible to play back from the middle of a pattern.

During pattern playback, the indicators of the step [1]–[16] buttons will light sequentially. This indicates the currently-sounding step.

To stop the pattern, press the [ ](STOP) button.

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

Selecting a pattern

Press either the [LEAD], [BASS], or [RHYTHM] button to select the desired pattern group.

Make sure that the display shows the pattern number.

At this time, also make sure that the BPM, OCT, or TONE/TYPE indicators are not lit. If one of these indicators is lit, press the [DISPLAY] button until the indicator goes out.

Use the [INC] and [DEC] buttons to select a pattern.

Pressing the [DISPLAY]

utton repeatedly cycles the indicators through the following states: dark ➔ BPM ➔ OCT ➔ TONE/

TYPE ➔ dark ➔ ... .

“P” in front of the number indicates a preset pattern, “U” indicates a user pattern, and “C” indicates a pattern saved on a memory card.

You can rapidly switch between preset (P), user (U), and card (C) by holding down the [SHIFT] button and pressing the [INC] or [DEC] button.

* Depending on the pattern you select, the indicator of the [LEAD], [BASS], or

[RHYTHM] button will blink, and the [LOOP CTRL] button's indicator may light (Loop Control: On). This indicates that the selected pattern includes Loop Control settings (p. 53).

When selecting a pattern from a card, or when switching to another pattern while the current pattern plays, press the [ENTER] button to finalize your selection.

The selected pattern number will blink until you finalize it.

* This step is not necessary when selecting a preset or user pattern while the pattern

is stopped.

* You cannot select a pattern from a card during playback. In this case, the display

will indicate “C--”.

If you select a pattern for which Loop Control is turned on, you will not hear any sound if a loop has not been recorded in the audio looper (p. 53). Press the [LOOP CTRL]

utton to turn Loop Control off, and you will hear sound.

If you switch to a different pattern while the current pattern is still playing, playback will change to the newly selected pattern at the beginning of the next measure. However, the tempo of the previous pattern will be maintained.

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

Patterns in the LEAD group

Normally, it is not possible to apply effects to the pattern playback. Instead, the preset patterns of the LEAD group already include either a

overdrive, distortion, phaser, or slicer + ring modulator effect. To see which effect is included, hold down the [SHIFT] button and press the step [16] button (p. 21).

The display will appear as follows.

: Overdrive 1 : Overdrive 2 (without filter envelope keyfollow) : Distortion 1

: Distortion 2 (without filter envelope keyfollow) : Phaser 1 (A light phaser effect is obtained.) : Phaser 2 (A light phaser effect is obtained. tempo sync) : Phaser 3 (A deep phaser effect is obtained.) : Phaser 4 (A deep phaser effect is obtained. tempo sync)

: Slicer + Ring Modulator 1 : Slicer + Ring Modulator 2 (tempo sync)

: No effect applied

When you are finished and want to return to the previous screen, press the [EXIT] button.

You can change the type of effect that is included in the pattern (p. 21). You can turn the C1, C2, and C3 knobs to modify the effect settings (p. 20).

Adjusting the tempo of a pattern

Since each pattern carries its own tempo setting, it will play according to this tempo.

Select a pattern.

Press the [DISPLAY] button so the BPM indicator lights.

If you want to use only the ring modulator with SL1, turn the C1 knob to the far left.

You can have your patterns play in sync with the tempo of an external MIDI device (p. 64).

If you switch to another pattern while the previous pattern is still playing, the tempo of the previous pattern will be maintained.

The display will show the tempo of the current pattern.

Use the [INC] and [DEC] buttons to set the tempo.

The tempo can be set to anything from = 40 to = 240.

As an alternative to using the [INC] or [DEC] buttons, you can set the tempo by pressing the [TAP] button at the desired timing (p. 57).

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

Playing the keyboard pads

The step [1]–[16] buttons can act as a keyboard. These buttons are collectively called the keyboard pads. They let you play the MC-09 like a synthesizer keyboard.

* It is not possible to play chords when a pattern from the LEAD or BASS group is

selected. When a pattern from the RHYTHM group is selected, you can play up to three rhythm tones simultaneously.

* If you play the keyboard pads while a pattern is playing back, the currently-

sounding note will be turned off, and the last-played note will take priority.

Select a pattern.

Make sure that the [KEYBOARD] button indicator is lit. If it is not lit, press the [KEYBOARD] button so it lights.

Press the keyboard pads to play them.

The keyboard pads work as described below.

When a pattern from the LEAD or BASS group is selected

fig.2-3a_80

CC#BD CC#BDD# E F F# G G# A B

* The Octave Shift setting will change the range of notes that you can play from the

keyboard pads, as follows.

LEAD group BASS group

You can use an external MIDI keyboard to play a

roader range of pitches than you can on the keyboard pads (p. 63).

If you want to play the keyboard pads without playing back a pattern, hold down the [SHIFT]

utton and press either the [LEAD], [BASS], or [RHYTHM] button, and then select the pattern. At this time, the indicators for the [LEAD], [BASS], and [RHYTHM] buttons will be

linking. To return to the normal state, hold down the [SHIFT] button once again and press either the [LEAD], [BASS], or [RHYTHM] button.

Octave Shift Note range

-2 B1–D3

-1 B2–D4 0 B3–D5 1 B4–D6 2 B5–D7

Octave Shift Note range

-4 B-1–D1

-3 B0–D2

-2 B1–D3 1 B2–D4 0 B3–D5

(C4 = middle C)

When a pattern from the RHYTHM group is selected

fig.2-3b_80

Bass drum

Snare drum

Closed hi-hat

cymbals

Open hi-hat

cymbals

Bass drum

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

To change the Octave Shift setting, press the [DISPLAY] button enough times to get the OCT indicator to light, and then press the [INC] or [DEC] button.

The display will show the Octave Shift setting.

* If a pattern from the RHYTHM group is selected, it is not possible to change the

Octave Shift setting.

Mixing in a performance from a device connected to the INPUT jacks

The playback from a CD or MD connected to the INPUT jacks can be mixed with the performance of the MC-09’s patterns, and output from the OUTPUT jacks.

1 2

Select a pattern.

Hold down the [SHIFT] button and press the [LINE IN] button.

Either the [LEAD], [BASS], or [RHYTHM] button indicator and the [LINE IN] indicator will light.

Play the pattern along with the performance from the CD or MD that is connected to the INPUT jack.

The pattern will be mixed with the performance from the CD or MD.

If you want to go back to playing only the pattern, hold down the [SHIFT] key once again and press the [LINE IN] button.

You can synchronize a pattern to the tempo of a CD or MD performance (p.

57). Press the display

utton so the BPM indicator lights, and then press the [TAP] button three or more times at the tempo of the CD or MD.

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

Modifying the sound

Using the knobs to edit the settings of the sound

The position of the knob

You can use the six knobs to edit the sound settings in real time. The settings that can be modified by each knob will depend on the group of the selected pattern, as shown in the table below.

fig.2-3c_80

Group C1 C2 C3 CUTOFF RESO DECAY

Overdrive/ Distortion

Phaser Modulation

LEAD

Slicer + Ring modulator

BASS Oscillator

RHYTHM — — — Bass drum

Oscillator pitch

speed Interval to cut Time to cut Ring

pitch

Depth of distortion

Modulation depth

Filter envelope depth

Brightness

Resonance

frequency

Accent Cutoff

Cutoff frequency

frequency

volume

may differ from the actual setting. In this case, turn the knob slightly, and then make the setting again.

Filter

Resonance

Resonance Filter

Snare drum volume

envelope decay time

Hi-hat volume

Cutoff frequency: Specifies the frequency at which the filter will begin to

be applied Resonance: Emphasizes the region near the cutoff frequency Decay time: Adjusts the time from the maximum level of the filter

envelope until it reaches the sustain level

* If you use the knobs to edit the sound settings, your changes will remain in effect

only while that pattern plays. The pattern will revert to the original settings when you select another pattern or turn off the power. If you want to keep the new settings, you must perform the Save operation (p. 30).

Changing the sound of a pattern

Here’s how you can change the tone or rhythm set used by a pattern.

Select a pattern.

Press the [DISPLAY] button enough times to get the TONE/ TYPE indicator to light.

The display will show the number of the tone or rhythm set that is assigned to the pattern.

For details on the function of each setting, refer to “Parameter list” (p. 68).

If you want to view the setting of a knob in the display while you adjust it, hold down the [SHIFT]

utton while you turn that

knob.

If you want to check the setting of a knob in the display, hold down the [SHIFT] button and press the [DISPLAY] button. When you do this, the value of each knob will be displayed in the order of C1, C2, C3, CUTOFF, RESO, and DECAY.

Use the [INC] and [DEC] buttons to select a different tone or rhythm set.

When you switch tones, the knobs and other settings included in that tone will be reflected by the pattern. This means that the sound will be heard in a different way than for the original pattern.

* If you select a different pattern or turn off the power, the pattern will revert to its

original tone or rhythm set. If you want to keep your new setting, you must carry out the Save procedure (p. 30).

Editing other sound settings

In addition to the settings of the six knobs, each tone has many other settings (parameters) that determine the resulting sound, and you can edit the values of these parameters.

* A rhythm set does not have any adjustable parameters other than the volume setting

of each rhythm tone.

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

1 2

3 4

Select a pattern.

Hold down the [SHIFT] button and press one of the step [1]–[16] buttons to select the parameter whose value you want to adjust.

The display will show the value of the parameter you selected.

fig.2-4

LFO rate

LFO waveform

OSC waveform

OSC vibrato depth

Filter type

Filter envelope

attack time

sustain level

Filter envelope

release time

Filter LFO depth

Amplifier envelope

depth

Amplifier envelope

attack time

Amplifier envelope

decay time

sustain level

Amplifier envelope

Use the [INC] and [DEC] buttons to adjust the value.

If you want to adjust the value of another parameter, press

For an explanation of each parameter, refer to p. 68.

Amplifier envelope

release time

Amplifier LFO depth

Effect type (LEAD)

Vintage mode (BASS)

another step [1]–[16] button.

While you press the step [1]–[16] buttons, the display will show an abbreviation of the parameter name.

When you are finished making settings, press the [EXIT] button.

* These settings will revert to their original values if you select another pattern or

turn off the power. If you want to keep your new settings, you must perform the Save operation (p. 30).

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

Adjusting the pan

Here’s how to adjust the pan (stereo position) of a pattern.

Select a pattern.

Press the button of the selected group ([LEAD], [BASS], [RHYTHM]) once again.

The display will show “Pan” for a moment, then the pan setting.

Use the [INC] and [DEC] buttons to adjust the pan setting.

This can be adjusted in a range of L64 (left)–cnt (center)–R63 (right).

When you are finished adjusting the setting, press the [EXIT] button.

The display will return to the state in which it was before you began adjusting the pan.

* If you select a different pattern or turn off the power, the pattern will revert to its

original pan setting. If you want to keep your new setting, you must carry out the Save procedure (p. 30).

Adjusting the pitch

Here’s how to adjust the pitch of a pattern. This is useful when you want to play back the pattern in a different key, or when you are playing together with a transposed instrument.

Press the [SETUP] button.

Press the [INC] or [DEC] button until the display indicates “ ” (Transpose).

Press the [ENTER] button.

The display will show the transpose setting.

Use the [INC] and [DEC] buttons to adjust the transpose setting.

You can transpose the pitch in semitone steps over a range of one octave upward or downward. To raise the pitch one semitone, specify “1.” To lower the pitch one semitone, specify “-1.”

Press the [SETUP] button to complete the setting.

Creating a phrase (Recording)

You can step-input (record) a phrase of up to two measures. The MC-09 provides two recording methods. Use the method that is most appropriate for your situation.

* Notes are the only MIDI messages that can be recorded.

Step recording

In this method, you successively input the note for each step.

fig.2-5_80

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

TR recording

In this method, you first specify the note that you want to input, and then “place” that note at the desired step while you listen to the playback.

This method is suitable for creating drum phrases, since you can input all notes for each rhythm tone (e.g., bass drum, snare drum, hi-hat) at once.

fig.2-6_80

Snare drum

REST REST REST RESTREST

TIE

Bass drum

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

Preparations for recording

Whether you are using step recording or TR recording, the preparations are the same. Before you begin recording, you must specify the length of the phrase and the note value that you want to input.

* The time signature of a phrase is fixed at 4/4, and cannot be changed.

Select a pattern (p. 16).

If you want to use step recording, select a pattern from the LEAD or BASS group.

If you want to use TR recording, you may select a pattern from any group.

Adjust the sound as desired (p. 20).

3 4

Adjust the tempo as desired (p. 57).

Press the [SEQ REC] button.

The MC-09 enters Step Edit mode, allowing you to edit the phrase.

Press the [SETUP] button.

The MC-09 enters Setup mode, allowing you to make preparations for recording. The display will show the number of measures in the phrase.

Use the [INC] and [DEC] buttons to specify the number of measures in the phrase.

A phrase may have either one or two measures.

Press the [SCALE] scale button to specify the note value and

If you want to create a phrase from scratch, press the [REST] button in Setup mode to erase all steps.

the number of steps.

16th notes x 16 steps: indicator dark 8th note triplets x 12 steps: indicator lit

Press the [EXIT] button.

You’re returned to Step Edit mode.

You are now ready to record. Proceed to the recording method that you want to use.

• Creating a melody or backing phrase

➔ Step recording (p. 25)

• Creating a drum phrase

➔ TR recording (p. 27)

Creating a melody or backing phrase (Step Recording)

* Step recording is not possible if you’ve selected a pattern from the RHYTHM group.

Make sure that the [KEYBOARD] button indicator is dark.

If it is lit, press the button to make it go dark.

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

Press a step [1]–[16] button to select the step at which you want to begin step recording.

If you are creating a new phrase, start step recording from step 1. If you are step recording from the middle of an existing phrase, select the

desired step.

* It is not possible to input two or more notes at one step. If you input a new note at

the step in which a note has already been input, the existing note will be erased, and replaced by the new data.

Press the [SEQ REC] button.

The display will briefly indicate "St.r" (Step Recording), and then step recording will begin.

The [KEYBOARD] button indicator will light. Now you can use the step [1]– [16] buttons as keyboard pads. The indicators of the step [1]–[16] buttons will light to indicate the step that is currently selected.

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

Use the C2 knob to adjust the velocity (volume) of the notes you enter, and the C3 knob to adjust the gate time (note duration).

fig.2-7_80

Velocity Gate time

Velocity: 1–8 Gate time:1–9, - (Slide-on)

Slide-on:The note of the current step will be smoothly

* It is not possible to specify the Gate Time if Vintage mode is

turned on for a BASS group pattern.

connected to the note of the next step. Choose this when you want to simulate the playing technique used by guitar or bass players in which they slide their finger to another fret after plucking the string. This setting is available only if you’ve selected a pattern from the LEAD or BASS group.)

Press the [TIE] button to input a tie, or the [REST]

utton to input a rest. When you press one of these buttons, the step will advance automatically, so you will not need to perform steps 14 and 15 of this procedure.

You can also specify a slide-on by holding down the [SHIFT] button and pressing the [SLIDE]

utton.

To add an accent to a note, hold down the [SHIFT] button and press the [ACCENT] button.

The velocity value will blink.

fig.2-7b_80

blink

Press a keyboard pad to specify the note (pitch).

Once the pitch has been specified, you will advance to the next step.

While a BASS group pattern is playing, you can use the C3 knob to adjust the accent level.

To change the range (octave shift) of the keyboard pads, press the [DISPLAY] button enough times to get the OCT indicator to light, and use the [INC] or [DEC] buttons.

Repeat steps 13–15 to create your phrase.

If you want to redo the settings of the previous step, press the [DEC] button to move backward to that step, and make the desired settings.

When you are finished creating the phrase, press the [ ](STOP) button.

Step recording will end, and you will return to Step Edit mode.

If you specified the length of the phrase as two measures, you can hold down the [SCALE] button to view the current measure position in the display. The previous display will reappear when you release the button.

To exit Step Edit mode, press the [EXIT] or [ ] (STOP) button.

Creating a drum phrase (TR Recording)

Press the [ ](PLAY) button.

The display will briefly indicate "tr.r" (TR Recording), and then TR Recording will begin.

Make sure that the [KEYBOARD] button indicator is dark.

Using the MC-09 as a synthesizer

These pages use the example of creating a drum phrase to explain TR Recording, but you can also use TR Recording to create melody or backing phrases. In this case, read references in this explanation to “rhythm tone” as “note.”

If it is lit, press the button to make it go dark.

Use the C1 knob to specify the rhythm tone.

Rhythm tone Display

Bass drum

Snare drum

Closed hi-hat

Opened hi-hat

Use the C2 knob to adjust the velocity (volume).

If you are creating a non-drum phrase (i.e., if you’ve selected a pattern from the LEAD or BASS group), use the C3 knob to adjust the gate time (note duration) in the same way as for step recording.

* It is not possible to specify the Gate Time if Vintage mode is turned on for a BASS

group pattern.

fig.2-8_80

If you want to use the keyboard pads to specify the rhythm tone, press the [KEYBOARD] button so its indicator lights. After you’ve specified the rhythm tone, press the [KEYBOARD] button once again so the indicator goes out.

If you want to change the range (Octave Shift) of the keyboard pads, press the [DISPLAY] button enough times to get the OCT indicator to light, and then press the [INC] or [DEC]

utton.

You can press the [TIE]

VelocityRhythm

note

utton to input a tie, or the [REST] button to input a rest. However, it is not possible to input a rest while a RHYTHM group pattern is selected.

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