Roland MC-909 User Manual

Before using this unit, carefully read the sections entitled: “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS”
(Owner’s Manual p. 2), “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” (Owner’s Manual pp. 3–4), and “IMPORTANT
NOTES” (Owner’s Manual p. 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, Quick Start and Owner’s Manual should be read in
its entirety. The manual should be saved and kept on hand as a convenient reference.

Owner’s Manual

Thank you, and congratulations on your choice of the Roland MC-909 Sampling Groovebox.

201b

Convention Used in This Manual

• Words enclosed in square brackets indicate buttons or a dial or a knob or a slider on the panel.

• (p. **) indicates a reference page.

985

* The explanations in this manual include illustrations that depict what should typically be shown by the

display. Note, however, that your unit may incorporate a newer, enhanced version of the system (e.g., includes
newer sounds), so what you actually see in the display may not always match what appears in the manual.

202

Copyright © 2002 ROLAND CORPORATION

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the
written permission of ROLAND CORPORATION.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this apparatus to rain or moisture.

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK

DO NOT OPEN

ATTENTION: RISQUE DE CHOC ELECTRIQUE NE PAS OUVRIR

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,

DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK).

NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.

REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the
product’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to
constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the product.

INSTRUCTIONS PERTAINING TO A RISK OF FIRE, ELECTRIC SHOCK, OR INJURY TO PERSONS.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING - When using electric products, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:

1. Read these instructions.

2. Keep these instructions.

3. Heed all warnings.

4. Follow all instructions.

5. Do not use this apparatus near water.

6. Clean only with a dry cloth.

7. Do not block any of the ventilation openings. Install in
accordance with the manufacturers instructions.

8. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators,
heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including
amplifiers) that produce heat.

9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or
grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with
one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two
blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the
third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug
does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.

10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched
particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the
point where they exit from the apparatus.

11. Only use attachments/accessories specified
by the manufacturer.

12. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when
unused for long periods of time.

13. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing
is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any
way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid
has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus,
the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does
not operate normally, or has been dropped.

For the U.K.

IMPORTANT: THE WIRES IN THIS MAINS LEAD ARE COLOURED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FOLLOWING CODE.

BLUE:
BROWN:

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying
the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.
Under no circumstances must either of the above wires be connected to the earth terminal of a three pin plug.

NEUTRAL
LIVE

2

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.

..........................................................................................................

002b

• Do not open or perform any internal modifica­tions on the unit. (The only exception would be
where this manual provides specific instructions
which should be followed in order to put in place
user-installable options; see p. 142, p. 144, p. 146,
and p. 148.)

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

008a (Modified)

• The unit should be connected to a power source
only of the type described in the operating instruc­tions, or as marked on the bottom of the unit.

..........................................................................................................

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.

008e

• Use only the attached power-supply cord.

..........................................................................................................

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!

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

012a

• Immediately turn the power off, remove the
power cord 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 power-supply cord, or the plug has been

damaged; or

• If smoke or unusual odor occurs

• 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.

..........................................................................................................

3

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.

..........................................................................................................

014

• Protect the unit from strong impact.

(Do not drop it!)

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

022a

• Always turn the unit off and unplug the power
cord before attempting installation of the circuit
board (SRX series/DIMM; p. 16).

..........................................................................................................

026

• Do not put anything that contains water (e.g.,
flower vases) on this unit. Also, avoid the use of
insecticides, perfumes, alcohol, nail polish, spray
cans, etc., near the unit. Swiftly wipe away any
liquid that spills on the unit using a dry, soft cloth.

..........................................................................................................

101a

• The unit should be located so that its location or
position does not interfere with its proper venti­lation.

..........................................................................................................

102b

• Always grasp only the plug on the power-supply
cord when plugging into, or unplugging from, an
outlet or this unit.

..........................................................................................................

103a:

• At regular intervals, you should unplug the power
plug and clean it by using a dry cloth to wipe all
dust and other accumulations away from its
prongs. Also, disconnect the power plug from the
power outlet whenever the unit is to remain
unused for an extended period of time. Any
accumulation of dust between the power plug and
the power outlet can result in poor insulation and
lead to fire.

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

106

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

..........................................................................................................

107b

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

..........................................................................................................

108a

• Before moving the unit, disconnect the power
plug from the outlet, and pull out all cords from
external devices.

..........................................................................................................

109a

• Before cleaning the unit, turn off the power and
unplug the power cord from the outlet (p. 16).

..........................................................................................................

110a

• Whenever you suspect the possibility of lightning
in your area, pull the plug on the power cord out
of the outlet.

..........................................................................................................

115a

• Install only the specified circuit board (SRX
series). Remove only the specified screws (p. 142,
p. 144, p. 146, and p. 148).

..........................................................................................................

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.

..........................................................................................................

4

IMPORTANT NOTES

291b

In addition to the items listed under “IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS” and “USING THE UNIT SAFELY” on pages 2
and 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).

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.

308

• Although the LCD and LEDs are switched off when the
POWER switch is switched off, this does not mean that the
unit has been completely disconnected from the source of
power. If you need to turn off the power completely, first
turn off the POWER switch, then unplug the power cord
from the power outlet. For this reason, the outlet into
which you choose to connect the power cord’s plug
should be one that is within easy reach and readily acces­sible.

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.

355

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

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 on a memory card,
or in another MIDI device (e.g., a sequencer).

552

• Unfortunately, it may be impossible to restore the contents
of data that was stored in the unit’s memory, a memory
card, or 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.

554

• Never strike or apply strong pressure to the display.

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.

557

• A small amount of heat will radiate from the unit during
normal operation.

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.

5

IMPORTANT NOTES

Before Using Memory Cards

Using Memory Cards

704

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

705

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

Installing the card protector

The MC-909 provides a card protector to prevent theft of the
memory card. To install the card protector, use the following
procedure.

Copyright

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.

852b

• When exchanging audio signals through a digital
connection with an external instrument, this unit can
perform recording without being subjected to some of the
restrictions of the Serial Copy Management System
(SCMS). This is because the unit is intended solely for
musical production, and is designed not to be subject to
restrictions as long as it is used to record works (such as
your own compositions) that do not infringe on the
copyrights of others. (SCMS is a feature that prohibits
second-generation and later copying through a digital
connection. It is built into MD recorders and other
consumer digital-audio equipment as a copyright­protection feature.)

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.

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.

Card protector

Side view

204

* Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of

Microsoft Corporation.

206j

* Windows® is known officially as: “Microsoft®

Windows® operating system.”

207

* Apple and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple

Computer, Inc.

209

* Mac OS is a trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.

230

* SmartMedia is a trademark of Toshiba Corp.

6

Contents

USING THE UNIT SAFELY......................................................................3

IMPORTANT NOTES ...............................................................................5

Features of the MC-909 ........................................................................13

Panel Descriptions................................................................................14

Top Panel...................................................................................................................................................14

Rear Panel.................................................................................................................................................. 15

Getting Ready........................................................................................16

Making Connections ................................................................................................................................ 16

Turning On/Off the Power..................................................................................................................... 16

An Overview of the MC-909..................................................................17

Basic structure of the MC-909................................................................................................................. 17

The sound generator section .......................................................................................................17

The sequencer section...................................................................................................................17

The controller section ...................................................................................................................18

The sampler section ......................................................................................................................18

Adjusting the display contrast................................................................................................................ 18

Editing a value .......................................................................................................................................... 18

Quickly changing a value ............................................................................................................18

Saving your data....................................................................................................................................... 18

Regarding the locations where samples are stored............................................................................. 19

Restoring the factory settings (Factory Reset)...................................................................................... 20

Pattern Mode ............................... 21

How Things Work (in Pattern mode) ...................................................22

Playing a pattern ...................................................................................24

Basics of pattern play............................................................................................................................... 24

Basic playback operation ............................................................................................................. 24

Selecting a pattern to play back ..................................................................................................24

Changing the BPM (Tempo)........................................................................................................25

Turning the metronome (click) on/off....................................................................................... 25

Muting (silencing) a part.............................................................................................................. 26

Velocity pads............................................................................................................................................. 27

Pattern Call..................................................................................................................................... 27

RPS ..................................................................................................................................................28

Arpeggiator.................................................................................................................................... 30

Chord Memory.............................................................................................................................. 32

Realtime Modify section.......................................................................................................................... 33

Selecting the part whose sound you want to modify .............................................................. 33

Part Mixer .................................................................................................................................................. 33

Mix In .........................................................................................................................................................34

Directly outputting the sound of an external device ............................................................... 34

Playing various pitches using the sound of an external device ............................................. 34

Selecting the input source device................................................................................................ 34

D Beam Controller.................................................................................................................................... 35

SOLO SYNTH................................................................................................................................ 35

CUT + RESO (Cutoff + Resonance) ............................................................................................ 35

TURNTABLE ................................................................................................................................. 35

ASSIGNABLE (Other applications)............................................................................................ 35

7

Contents

Turntable emulation................................................................................................................................. 36

Auto Sync................................................................................................................................................... 36

Effects ......................................................................................................................................................... 36

Mastering................................................................................................................................................... 36

Recording a pattern ..............................................................................37

Realtime recording ................................................................................................................................... 37

Recording procedure .................................................................................................................... 38

Rehearsal ........................................................................................................................................38

Realtime Erase ...............................................................................................................................39

Recording Cancel ..........................................................................................................................39

TR-REC....................................................................................................................................................... 39

Recording procedure .................................................................................................................... 40

About the timing scale.................................................................................................................. 40

Step recording........................................................................................................................................... 41

Recording procedure .................................................................................................................... 41

Tempo/mute recording........................................................................................................................... 42

Pattern editing.......................................................................................43

Basic procedure for pattern editing ....................................................................................................... 43

Extract a Rhythm Instrument...................................................................................................... 44

Pattern Copy .................................................................................................................................. 44

Erase................................................................................................................................................ 45

Delete Measure.............................................................................................................................. 45

Insert Measure ............................................................................................................................... 45

Transpose .......................................................................................................................................45

Change Velocity/Change Duration ...........................................................................................45

Shift Clock ...................................................................................................................................... 45

Data Thin........................................................................................................................................ 46

Edit Quantize................................................................................................................................. 46

Reclock............................................................................................................................................ 47

Microscope ................................................................................................................................................ 48

Basic procedure in the Microscope............................................................................................. 48

Performance data that can be edited in the Microscope ......................................................... 48

Inserting performance data (Create) .......................................................................................... 49

Erasing performance data (Erase)............................................................................................... 49

Moving performance data (Move).............................................................................................. 49

Copying performance data (Copy)............................................................................................. 49

Editing a system exclusive message........................................................................................... 49

Saving a pattern ....................................................................................50

Patch/Sample Mode .....................51

How Things Work (in Pattern mode) ...................................................52

Patch Edit ..............................................................................................54

How a Patch Is Organized ......................................................................................................................54

How a Tone Is Organized............................................................................................................ 54

Tips for Creating a Patch......................................................................................................................... 54

Selecting a patch/rhythm set.................................................................................................................. 55

Selecting from a list.......................................................................................................................55

Selecting directly ........................................................................................................................... 55

Selecting the Tone(s) That Will Sound ..................................................................................................56

8

Contents

Patch editing procedure ..........................................................................................................................56

Editing from the Panel Knobs ..................................................................................................... 56

Detailed Editing............................................................................................................................. 56

Selecting a Tone to Edit................................................................................................................ 56

Rhythm Edit...........................................................................................70

How Percussion Instruments Are Organized ...................................................................................... 70

Selecting the Wave(s) That Will Sound................................................................................................. 70

Rhythm editing procedure...................................................................................................................... 70

Selecting the rhythm tone to edit................................................................................................ 70

Selecting the wave that you want to edit................................................................................... 70

Saving a Patch/Rhythm Set .................................................................77

Copying and Initializing a Patch/Rhythm Set.....................................78

Copying a Patch Tone.............................................................................................................................. 78

Initializing a Patch....................................................................................................................................78

Copying a Rhythm Tone (Key)............................................................................................................... 78

Initializing a Rhythm Set......................................................................................................................... 78

Song Mode................................... 79

How Things Work (in Song mode) ......................................................80

Playing songs........................................................................................82

Basic playback operation ............................................................................................................. 82

Song Reset ......................................................................................................................................82

Selecting a song to play................................................................................................................ 82

Changing the BPM or mute status.............................................................................................. 82

Recording a song..................................................................................83

Editing the setup parameters ......................................................................................................83

Song editing ..........................................................................................84

Clear All Steps ...............................................................................................................................84

Delete Step...................................................................................................................................... 84

Insert Step....................................................................................................................................... 84

Song Copy ...................................................................................................................................... 84

Saving a song........................................................................................85

Effects .......................................... 87

Effects ....................................................................................................88

Effect on/off.............................................................................................................................................. 88

Effect settings ............................................................................................................................................ 88

Effect connection (Effect Routing) ..............................................................................................88

Compressor.................................................................................................................................... 89

Multi-effects ................................................................................................................................... 90

Reverb............................................................................................................................................. 90

Realtime control of effects....................................................................................................................... 91

Selecting the effect that you want to control............................................................................. 91

9

Contents

Multi-Effects List ...................................................................................92

Multi-Effects Types ..................................................................................................................................92

Multi-Effects Parameters......................................................................................................................... 92

Mastering effect ..................................................................................108

Sampling.................................... 109

How Things Work (in Sampling mode) .............................................110

Sampling procedure ...........................................................................112

Sampling.................................................................................................................................................. 112

Resampling.............................................................................................................................................. 112

Mix Sampling.......................................................................................................................................... 112

Auto Divide Sampling........................................................................................................................... 112

Solo Sampling .........................................................................................................................................112

Dividing a sample during sampling ........................................................................................113

Sample Edit .........................................................................................114

Basic sample editing procedure ...........................................................................................................114

Zoom In/Out...............................................................................................................................114

Setting the start/end points of the sample ......................................................................................... 115

Sample List .............................................................................................................................................. 115

Sample Parameters................................................................................................................................. 116

Truncate ................................................................................................................................................... 117

Create Patch............................................................................................................................................. 117

Chop ......................................................................................................................................................... 118

Procedure for dividing a sample ..............................................................................................118

Automatically dividing a sample (Auto Chop)...................................................................... 118

Auditioning the divided samples............................................................................................. 119

Create Rhythm........................................................................................................................................ 119

Emphasis.................................................................................................................................................. 120

Combine...................................................................................................................................................120

Edit Time Stretch .................................................................................................................................... 121

Normalize................................................................................................................................................121

Amp.......................................................................................................................................................... 122

Saving a sample..................................................................................123

Menu (in Sample Edit) ........................................................................124

Using the menu....................................................................................................................................... 124

Loading a sample ........................................................................................................................ 124

Loading all samples .................................................................................................................... 124

Importing WAV/AIFF data ...................................................................................................... 124

Deleting a sample........................................................................................................................ 124

Erasing a sample ......................................................................................................................... 124

10

Contents

Menu .........................................125

System .................................................................................................126

Panel/Controller .................................................................................................................................... 127

Sequencer/MIDI.....................................................................................................................................127

Sound ....................................................................................................................................................... 129

Sampling.................................................................................................................................................. 129

D Beam..................................................................................................................................................... 130

System Information................................................................................................................................ 130

Utility ....................................................................................................131

Import SMF ............................................................................................................................................. 131

Save As SMF............................................................................................................................................ 132

Import WAV/AIFF ................................................................................................................................132

Factory Reset ........................................................................................................................................... 132

User Backup ............................................................................................................................................132

User Restore ............................................................................................................................................132

MIDI ......................................................................................................133

File Utility.............................................................................................134

Initializing a memory card (Format) ...................................................................................................134

Deleting a file (Delete) ...........................................................................................................................134

Moving a file (Move).............................................................................................................................. 134

Copying a file.......................................................................................................................................... 134

USB ......................................................................................................135

USB communication procedure ...........................................................................................................135

Canceling USB communication................................................................................................. 135

Cautions Regarding Folders and Files ................................................................................................135

Undo/Redo...........................................................................................136

V-LINK .......................................137

About V-LINK.......................................................................................138

What is V-LINK? ....................................................................................................................................138

Connection examples............................................................................................................................. 138

Using V-LINK ......................................................................................................................................... 138

Turning V-LINK on ....................................................................................................................138

Turning V-LINK off.................................................................................................................... 138

V-LINK settings......................................................................................................................................139

Resetting the image..................................................................................................................... 139

11

Contents

Appendices ................................141

Installing the Wave Expansion Board...............................................142

Cautions When Installing a Wave Expansion Board ........................................................................142

How to Install a Wave Expansion Board ............................................................................................ 142

Checking that a wave expansion board is installed correctly.......................................................... 143

Installation de la carte d’extension Wave

(French language for Canadian Safety Standard) ...........................144

Précautions à prendre lors de l’installation d’une carte d’expansion Wave .................................144

Installation d’une carte d’expansion Wave ........................................................................................144

Vérifier que la carte d’expansion Wave est installée correctement................................................. 145

Expanding the Memory ......................................................................146

Precautions for Expanding Memory ................................................................................................... 146

How to Expand the Memory ................................................................................................................ 146

Removing the Memory............................................................................................................... 147

Checking that memory is installed correctly...................................................................................... 147

Ajouter de la mémoire

(French language for Canadian Safety Standard) ...........................148

Précautions à prendre lors de l’ajout de mémoire............................................................................. 148

Installation du module de mémoire ....................................................................................................148

Retrait du module de mémoire................................................................................................. 149

Vérifier que la mémoire est installée correctement ........................................................................... 149

Waveform List .....................................................................................150

Preset Patch List.................................................................................151

Preset Rhythm Set List.......................................................................154

Preset Pattern List ..............................................................................158

RPS Pattern List..................................................................................160

RPS Set List.........................................................................................162

Song List..............................................................................................165

Arpeggio Style List .............................................................................166

Chord Form List ..................................................................................167

SRX-05 Special Patch List..................................................................168

SRX-05 Special Rhythm Set List .......................................................169

MIDI Implementation Chart ................................................................170

Index.....................................................................................................172

Specifications......................................................................................175

Error Message List..............................................................................177

12

Features of the MC-909

Cutting-edge groovebox that unifies
MIDI and sampling

In a single unit, the MC-909 delivers the power of a
conventional groovebox (an all-in-one synthesizer and
sequencer) plus a full-fledged sampler. It’s a new generation of
workstation that gives you everything you need to perfect your
music.

Built-in mastering functionality

A three-band compressor is built-in, letting you apply the
mastering operations that are the indispensable final step in
music production. The output of the MC-909 can be recorded
directly to CD or MD.

Sample synthesis

Waveforms sampled by the MC-909 or loaded from an external
source can be freely manipulated using the filter, LFO, and
effects in the same way as the internal preset waveforms.

Full-fledged sampler

The high-performance 44.1 kHz sampler provides five sampling
modes for various situations. You can sample external analog or
digital input sources, or resample the internal sounds. The full
range of editing functions includes Time Stretch and Chop.

Memory can be expanded to a maximum of 256 MB by adding
DIMM modules. When added to the internal 16 MB of RAM
(approximately 3 minutes of monaural sampling), this gives
you up to 272 MB (approximately 51 minutes of monaural
sampling).

High-performance synthesizer sound
generator

Features Roland's latest high-performance synthesizer sound
generator, with 800 patches and 64 rhythm sets that are based
on new waveforms created especially for the MC-909.

You can also install one wave expansion board (SRX series) to
increase the waveforms available to you when the need arises.
In particular, installing the SRX-05 “Supreme Dance” board will
let you use special patches and rhythm sets created specifically
for the MC-909.

Plenty of external interfaces

The MC-909 provides a USB connector for file transfer with
your computer. Waveform data files in .WAV or .AIFF formats
and SMF-format sequence data can be imported or exported
between the MC-909 and your computer with the click of a
mouse, as easily as if you were using an external drive.

Highly evolved turntable emulation,
and dual D Beam controllers

By automatically time-stretching a sample according to the
sequencer playback tempo, you can maintain playback
synchronization between the sequencer and samples. This lets
you use the turntable emulation slider to control the sequencer
and sample BPM in real time. You can also specify the variable
range of the slider.

In addition, the MC-909 features dual D Beam controllers,
located at the left and right of the panel. This gives you the
capability for special effects that have never been possible until
now.

Easy creation of original patterns

With a large LCD, knobs and a mixer section that can be
operated at any time to modify the sound directly, and newly
developed velocity pads, the MC-909 is an ideal recording
environment. You can use realtime, TR-REC, and step recording
methods, and manipulate your music with editing functionality
that goes well beyond previous grooveboxes.

The sequencer has also been upgraded, letting you create 16­part patterns that are up to 998 measures long. SMF Convert
Load/Save functions ensure easy data exchange with other
sequencers.

Two multi-effects, a compressor, and
reverb

The two independent MFX units (multi-effects: MFX1 provides
38 types, MFX2 provides 47 types) provide a complete array of
effects that are ready to go whenever you need them. In
particular, MFX2 can produce long delays of up to four seconds.
The two-band compressor is a great way to power-up rhythm
instruments such kick drum. The acclaimed reverb from the XV
series is also provided.

MC-909

An Overview of the

The latest patterns for creative use
and immediate performance

For immediate playing or for use in your own compositions, the
MC-909 provides 215 preset patterns and 440 different RPS
patterns, covering a broad range of current dance styles,
including techno, trance, house, hiphop, and R&B.

V-LINK function

V-LINK ( ) is a function that provides for the
play of music and visual material. By using V-LINK-compatible
video equipment, visual effects can be easily linked to, and
made part of the expressive elements of a performance. By
connecting the MC-909 to the Edirol DV-7PR, you can switch
images in synchronization with music, or use the MC-909’s
knobs to control the brightness, color, or playback speed of the
images.

13

Panel Descriptions

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

12

13

14

10

11

15

16

Top Panel

fig.0-01

1. D Beam Controllers

You can modify the patterns or sounds by passing your hand over
these (p. 35).

2. Volume Section

Adjusts the output volume of the entire MC-909, and the input
volume to the MC-909.

3. Realtime Modify Section

Modifies the tone (p. 33).

4. Mastering Section

Applies a mastering effect (compressor) (p. 108).

5. Velocity Pads

Used as a keyboard to play sounds or trigger phrases (p. 27).

6. Function Buttons

Access the screens for the functions shown in the bottom line of the
screen.

7. Part Mixer Section

Adjusts the volume and pan for each part in the pattern (p. 33).

8. Sampling Section

Records external sounds into the MC-909 as waveforms, and
processes them (p. 109).

9. Effect Section

Applies special effects to the sound (p. 88).

10. Mode Section

Selects Song mode (p. 79), Pattern mode (p. 21), or Patch/Sample
mode (p. 51).

The button of the currently selected mode will light.

11. Cursor/Value Section

Used to select patterns or patches, and to input values (p. 18).

12. Sequencer Section

Used to play/record patterns or songs (p. 24, p. 82).

13. Turntable Emulation

Simulates the effect of changing the rotational speed of a turntable
(p. 36).

14. TAP Button

Adjusts the BPM (tempo) according to the timing at which you tap
this button (p. 25).

15. V-LINK Button

Switches V-LINK (p. 137) on/off.

16. SmartMedia card slot

Insert a SmartMedia card (3.3V, maximum 128 MB) here.

14

Rear Panel

fig.0-02

1 1011 2 3 4 6 785 9

Panel Descriptions

MC-909

An Overview of the

1. POWER Switch

Turns the MC-909’s power on and off (p. 16).

2. AC Inlet

Connect the included power cable here (p. 16).

The unit should be connected to a power source only of
the type marked on the bottom of the unit.

3. USB Connector

This connector lets you use a USB cable to connect your computer to
the MC-909 (p. 135).

4. MIDI Connectors (IN, OUT)

These connectors connect the MC-909 with other MIDI devices,
enabling the sending and receiving of MIDI messages (p. 16).

•

IN:

This connector receives messages from another MIDI device.

•

OUT:

This connector transmits messages to another MIDI

device.

5. Digital Audio Interface

These are optical-type and coaxial-type S/P DIF format digital in/
out connectors.

S/P DIF:

The digital output connectors output the same audio signal as is
output from the MIX OUTPUT jacks.

A digital interface format used in consumer digital audio
devices.

6. INPUT Jack

Accept input of audio signals in stereo (L/R) from external devices.
If you want to use mono input, connect to the L jack.

7. MIX OUTPUT Jacks

These jacks output stereo (L/R) audio signals to your amp or mixer.
If you want to use mono output, connect to the L jack.

8. DIRECT 1 OUTPUT Jacks

The sound of the part/patch/rhythm set/tone/rhythm tone whose
Output Assign (p. 88, p. 89, and p. 90) you set to “DIR1” is output in
stereo (L/R) from these jacks to your amp or mixer. If you want to
use mono output, connect to the L jack.

9. DIRECT 2 OUTPUT Jacks

The sound of the part/patch/rhythm set/tone/rhythm tone whose
Output Assign (p. 88, p. 89, and p. 90) you set to “DIR2” is output in
stereo (L/R) from these jacks to your amp or mixer. If you want to
use mono output, connect to the L jack.

10. PHONES Jack

Headphones are plugged in here (p. 16).

11. Ground Terminal

927

Depending on the circumstances of a particular setup, you may
experience a discomforting sensation, or perceive that the surface
feels gritty to the touch when you touch this device, microphones
connected to it, or the metal portions of other objects, such as guitars.
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.

When recording from a mic, connect it to the L jack, and set Input
Select (p. 34) to “MICROPHONE.”

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)

15

Getting Ready

Mixer, etc.

Power amp

Speaker

(with built-in Amp)

MIDI IN

MIDI OUT

Stereo set, etc.

Stereo headphones

Make connections to
the MIX OUTPUT jacks

External MIDI device
(MIDI Keyboard, Sequencer, etc.)

to Power outlet

Making Connections

The MC-909 is not equipped with an internal amp or speakers. To
hear sound, you will need to connect it to a keyboard amp or audio
system, or connect headphones. Refer to the following figure when
connecting the MC-909 with external devices.

* 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.

fig.Connect.e

1.

2.

Turning On/Off the Power

* Once the connections have been completed (p. 16), turn on power to

1.

2.

3.

4.

16

Before making any connections, confirm that power to all
devices has been turned off.

Connect the AC power cord included with the MC-909 to
the unit, then plug the other end into a power outlet.

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.

Make sure that all volume controls on the MC-909 and
connected devices are set to “0.”

Turn on the device connected to the INPUT Jacks.

Turn on the MC-909’s POWER switch.

Turn on the devices connected to the OUTPUT Jacks.

3.

Connect audio and MIDI cables as shown in the diagram.
If connecting headphones, plug the headphones into the
PHONES jack.

5.

Adjust the volume levels for the 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.

Turning Off the Power

Before switching off the power, lower the volume on each of the
devices in your system and then TURN OFF the devices in the
reverse order to which they were switched on.

* If you need to turn off the power completely, first turn off the POWER

switch, then unplug the power cord from the power outlet. Refer to

Power Supply

(p. 5).

An Overview of the MC-909

Basic structure of the MC­909

This section provides an overview of the sequencer section, sound
generator section, controller section, and sampler section, which
make up the main parts of the MC-909.

fig.0-03.e

Sampling

Sampler
Section

Sequencer
Section

Recording

Controller (Velocity Pad, Knob, etc.)

PLAY

The sound generator section

This is the section that actually generates the sound. It produces
sounds in response to data received from the MC-909’s Controller or
Sequencer sections. You can also play the sound generator by
sending it performance data from an external MIDI device.

Since the sound generator section of the MC-909 is able to play up to
64 notes simultaneously, it can easily handle multiple parts.

Song

Two or more patterns connected in the order of playback are
called a song.

In one song, you can register up to 50 patterns in the desired
order of playback.

Sound Generator
Section

Velocity Pad Play

Rhythm set

A rhythm set assigns a separate instrumental sound to each
note of the keyboard. These instrumental sounds are not played
as a scale. The MC-909 provides 64 preset rhythm sets.

(Example)

fig.0-04

SNARE

HI-HATCLAP

B3

KICK

Tones

Tones are the raw materials of sound that are combined to
create a patch. The MC-909 provides 693 different waveforms,
and two waveforms can be assigned to each tone. (Waveforms
can be assigned in stereo; one for L and one for R.)

You can install separately sold wave expansion boards (SRX
series) to add more waveforms, and sounds that you sample
can also be used as waveforms.

Effects

Effects let you apply a variety of special effects to patches or
rhythm sets. You can use four effects simultaneously:
compressor (an effect that makes the sound more consistent),
reverb (which adds reverberation), and two multi-effects (each
selectable from 47 types such as equalizer, overdrive, and
delay).

TOM CYMBALRIM

The sequencer section

A

sequencer

can play back the performance data that was recorded.
The MC-909 is a sequencer that plays back patterns and adds

changes to the playback method. This type of sequencer is referred
to as a

is a device that records musical performance data, and

pattern sequencer

.

MC-909

An Overview of the

Pattern

A pattern is 1–998 measures of performance data consisting of
sounds (patches or rhythm sets) for up to 16 parts.

The MC-909 provides 215 different preset patterns.

Part

A part corresponds to a single musician in a band or orchestra.
Since the MC-909 has sixteen parts, you can use sixteen
different patches or rhythm sets to play as many as sixteen
performances simultaneously.

Patch

A patch corresponds to a single instrument such as a piano or
guitar. A patch consists of up to four “tones.” The MC-909
provides 800 different patches, and you can enjoy an enormous
variety of sounds simply by choosing from these patches.

Recording/playing a performance

The MC-909 comes with 215 previously prepared patterns
(

preset patterns

easily.
You can also create your own original patterns, either by

modifying preset patterns or by creating a pattern from scratch.

). These preset patterns can be played back

Simultaneous playback of multiple parts

The MC-909 is able to play multiple sounds (patches)
simultaneously. For example, with the following part
configuration, you can simultaneously play drums, bass, piano
and guitar; and the resulting performance will sound like a
band.

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 10

Guitar
Bass
Piano
Rhythm (Drum) Set

17

An Overview of the MC-909

Editing performance data

Unlike a cassette tape or MD, a sequencer records a
performance as musical data (not as sound). It’s easy to edit the
performance data to create your own original patterns.

The controller section

The “controllers” of the MC-909 are its velocity pads, D Beam
controllers, and the panel knobs and sliders. By operating these
controllers you can modify the performance and sound in various
ways.

Velocity pads

These pads function just like a music keyboard. They are also
used to trigger RPS (p. 28) and the arpeggiator (p. 30).
Normally, pad number 2 will be C4. The force with which you
strike a pad will control the velocity (dynamics) of the note.

D Beam controllers

By passing your hand over these controllers you can play or
modify sounds (p. 35).

Turntable emulation

These buttons and slider allow realtime synchronized
performance with sound sources such as a turntable, assisting
you with DJ performance (p. 36).

Realtime modify knobs

These knobs and sliders give you realtime control over sound
parameters such as filter cutoff frequency and resonance or LFO
speed.

The sampler section

A sampler is a device that captures sounds from a wave file or an
external source such as a CD.

On the MC-909, a sampled sound can be handled just like an internal
waveform of the sound generation section; you can change the pitch
of the sampled sound, apply a filter to it, or modify its envelope.

Adjusting the display contrast

Use the [LCD CONTRAST] knob located at the right of the display to
adjust the contrast.

Turn the knob toward the right to darken the screen, or toward the
left to lighten it.

Editing a value

Use the [VALUE] dial to make large changes in a value, or use the
[INC]/[DEC] buttons to change a value in steps of one. Your
changes will affect the value that is displayed in white characters
within a black frame in the screen. This location is called the
“cursor.” If a screen contains more than one value that can be edited,
use the [CURSOR] buttons to move the cursor to the value you want
to edit.

Quickly changing a value

• If you hold down [SHIFT] while you turn the [VALUE] dial, the
value will change more rapidly.

Key Repeat function

• The value will continue changing if you press and hold [INC] or
[DEC].

• The cursor will continue moving if you press and hold a
[CURSOR] key.

Turbo Repeat function

• The value will increase rapidly if you hold down [INC], then
press and hold [DEC].

• The value will decrease rapidly if you hold down [DEC], then
press and hold [INC].

• The cursor will move rapidly if you hold down a [CURSOR]
button and then press the opposite [CURSOR] button.

Saving your data

18

After editing settings or recording a performance, you must save
your data if you want to keep the results. If you turn off the power
without saving, your settings or recorded performance will be lost.

For details on saving your data, refer to the following pages.

•

Saving a pattern

•

Saving a Patch/Rhythm Set

•

Saving a song

•

Saving a sample

•

Saving a Pattern Set

•

Saving an RPS set

•

Saving an arpeggio style

•

Saving a chord form

Saving takes several seconds. Do not turn off the power until saving
is completed. Doing so may cause the MC-909 to malfunction.

(p. 50)

(p. 77)

(p. 85)

(p. 123)

(p. 27)

(p. 30)

(p. 32)

(p. 33)

An Overview of the MC-909

Regarding the locations where samples are stored

The MC-909 can use two types of memory; sample memory and DIMM whose contents are lost
when you turn off the power, and user area and memory card whose contents are preserved even
when the power is off.

When shipped from the factory, the MC-909 has 16 MB of sample memory and 16 MB of user
area. By adding a DIMM module you can expand the sample memory to a maximum of 272 MB
(if a 256 MB DIMM is used).

The user area can hold up to 16 MB, but by using a memory card you can store a maximum of 128
MB in addition to the user area.

When you record a sample on the MC-909 or play a patch that uses a sample, the sample is

loaded into sample memory (including the DIMM). However when you turn off the power,

the contents of the sample memory and DIMM will be lost. This means that if you want to

keep the sample, you must use the Write operation to save it in the user area or on a

memory card.

MC-909

An Overview of the

fig.SampleMem-e

When managing data from your computer or from the MC-909’s Utility menu, you can manage
only the data located in the user area or the memory card. You cannot manage data that is located
in sample memory or DIMM.

MC-909

Factory-installed

memory

Expandable

memory

For sampling and playback

(contents disappear when powered-off)

Be aware that because of this, the MC-909 can play samples larger than 128 MB, but

samples larger than 128 MB

Sample memory

16MB

DIMM

128 or 256MB

.

User area

16MB

USB

Memory

card

8–128MB

Computer

For saving and transfer to/from computer

(contents preserved even when powered-off)

cannot save

19

An Overview of the MC-909

Restoring the factory settings (Factory Reset)

Here’s how to restore the settings of the MC-909 to their factory-set
state.

When you execute Factory Preset, the data of the internal user
memory will be lost. If the internal memory of the MC-909
contains data that you want to keep, you must save it on
SmartMedia or via USB to your computer.

Never turn off the power while Factory Reset is being
executed. Doing so may destroy the contents of memory.

3.

Press [ENTER] to access the Utility menu.

fig.0-06

4.

Press [F4 (Factory Reset)].

A warning message will appear.

fig.0-07

1.

Press [MENU].

2.

Use [CURSOR] to select “Utility.”

fig.0-05

5.

To execute a Factory Reset, press [F6 (Execute)].

The Factory Reset will be carried out.

* If you decide not to proceed with the reset, press [F5 (Cancel)].

When the screen indicates “Please Power Off,” turn the power off,
then on again.

20

Pattern Mode

In this mode you can play, record, and edit patterns.

Pattern Mode

21

How Things Work (in Pattern mode)

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

12

13

14

10

11

fig.0-01

When you press the Mode section
indicator will light and the MC-909 will be in Pattern mode.

In Pattern mode, the various parts of the panel will perform the
following functions.

1. D Beam controllers

Pass your hand over these to modify the pattern (p. 35).

[PATTERN] button

, the button’s

[BEAM 1 ON]

[BEAM 2 ON] Turns the right D Beam controller

[TWIN D BEAM ASSIGN] Selects the function of the D Beam

2. Volume section

[OUTPUT] Adjusts the output volume of the MIX OUT jacks

and the headphone.

[INPUT] Adjusts the input volume from the INPUT jacks.

Turns the left D Beam controller
(BEAM 1) on/off.

(BEAM 2) on/off.

controller.

3. Realtime Modify section

These controls modify the sound (p. 33).

4. Mastering section

[ON] Switches the mastering effect (compressor) on/off.
[BAND] Selects the frequency band to adjust.
[ATTACK] Specify the time from when the volume goes up

the threshold level until the compressor effect ap­plies.

[RELEASE] Specify the time from when the volume falls below

the threshold level until the compressor effect no
longer applies.

5. Velocity pads

Use these pads as a keyboard to play sounds or trigger phrases (p.

27).

6. Function buttons

These buttons access the function screens indicated in the bottom
line of the display.

22

How Things Work (in Pattern mode)

7. Part Mixer section

Here you can adjust the volume, pan, etc., of each part (p. 33).

[PART]
(SELECT/MUTE)

[TEMPO/MUTE
CONTROL]

[MIXER ASSIGN] When you press this button so its indicator

[PART ASSIGN] Selects the parts that are controlled by the

Selects the function of the Part buttons [1]–
[16].
The buttons work as Part Select buttons
when the indicator is not lighted, and as
Mute buttons when the indicator is lit.
Switches on/off the Tempo/Mute part (a
part that records tempo changes and mute
operations, p. 42).

lights, the Mixer screen will appear.

sliders.
The sliders will control parts 1–8 if this indi­cator is not lighted, or parts 9–16 if the indi­cator is lit.

8. Sampling section

[EDIT] Displays the Sample Edit

screen (p. 114).

[SAMPLING/RESAMPLING] Displays the Sampling menu

screen (p. 112).

[MIX IN] Mixes the sound from the IN-

PUT jack into the output (p.

34).

[AUTO SYNC] Synchronizes a sample to the

pattern (p. 36).

12. Sequencer section

[PLAY] Plays a pattern (p. 24).
[STOP] Stops playback/recording.
[FWD] Advances to the next measure.
[BWD] Returns to the previous measure.
[TOP] Moves to the beginning of the pattern.
[REC] Used when recording (p. 37).

13. Turntable emulation

Applies an effect that simulates increasing/decreasing the rotational
speed of a turntable (p. 36).

14. TAP button

Lets you set the BPM (tempo) by pressing the button at the desired
timing (p. 25).

Pattern Mode

9. Effect section

Applies special effects to the sound (p. 88).

[COMP]–[REVERB] Switch each effect on/off (p. 88).
[KNOB ASSIGN] Selects the effect to be controlled in real

[TYPE] Selects the type of effect.
[C1], [C2] Modifies the assigned function in real

time (p. 91).

time.

10. Mode section

Press the [PATTERN] button to enter Pattern mode.
Pressing one of the other two buttons will switch you to the

corresponding mode.

11. Cursor/Value section

Use these buttons and dial to select patterns or input values (p. 18).

23

Playing a pattern

Basics of pattern play

The top screen of Pattern mode

fig.1-01

1

2

1.

Current pattern

The pattern that is now playing

2.

Next pattern

The pattern that will play next

* “Len” is the number of measures (Length) of the pattern.

Basic playback operation

Use the following buttons to control the playback.

fig.1-02.e

Return to the previous measure

Move to the beginning
of the pattern

Play back Used for recordingStop playback

* The [FWD], [BWD], and [TOP] buttons can also be used during

playback.

* * Press [STOP] twice to return to the beginning of the pattern.

Advance to the
next measure

Selecting a pattern to play back

There are two ways to select a pattern for playback;

a list

.

directly

, or

from

Function buttons

[F1 (List)]
(Pattern List)
[F2 (Edit)]
(Pattern Edit)
[F3 (Mixer)]
(Part Mixer)
[F4 (Effects)] Apply special effects to the sound

[F5 (Mastering)] Make settings for the Mastering ef-

[F6 (BPM/Click)] Set the tempo, and turn the metro-

[SHIFT] + [F1 (Arp)]
(Arpeggiator)
[SHIFT] + [F2 (Chord Mem­ory)]
[SHIFT] + [F3 (Pattern Call)] Select a pattern set (p. 27).
[SHIFT] + [F4 (RPS)] Make RPS settings (p. 29).
[SHIFT] + [F5 (System)]
(System Edit)
[SHIFT] + [F6 (Utility)]
(Utility Menu)

Select a pattern from a list (p. 25).

Edit the settings of a pattern (p.

43).
Specify the volume, pan, etc., of
each part (p. 33).

(p. 88).

fect (p. 108).

nome on/off (p. 25).
Make arpeggiator settings (p. 30).

Register chords (p. 32).

Make settings that apply to the en­tire MC-909 (p. 126).
Open the Utility menu (p. 131).

Selecting a pattern directly

Selecting the current pattern

While the pattern is stopped, use [VALUE] or [INC/DEC] to select a
pattern.

Selecting the next pattern

While the pattern is playing, use [VALUE] or [INC/DEC] to select a
pattern.

When the current pattern finishes playing, the selected pattern
will start playing.

* Shortly before the current pattern finishes playing, the word

“LOCKED” will appear above the name of the next pattern. You will
not be able to change the next pattern while this is displayed, since
preparations are being made to move to that pattern.

fig.1-03

24

If you press [CURSOR (left/right)] while a pattern is playing, the
pattern will change immediately, and will start playing from the
beginning of the pattern.

Selecting a pattern from the list

1.

Press [F1 (List)].

fig.1-04

Playing a pattern

Changing the BPM (Tempo)

Using the [VALUE] dial

1.

Press [F6 (BPM/Click)] to access the BPM window.

fig.1-05

Pattern Mode

2.

Press [F1 (Preset)], [F2 (User)], or [F3 (Card)] to

choose the group that contains the desired pattern.

3.

Use [VALUE], [INC/DEC] or [CURSOR (up/down)] to

select a pattern.

If you hold down [SHIFT] while using the above controls, the
pattern number will change in steps of ten.

4.

Press [F6 (Select Pattern)] to finalize your selection.

[F1 (Preset)]
[F2 (User)] Choose user patterns.
[F3 (Card)] Choose patterns stored on a memory card.
[F6 (Select Pattern)] Finalize the selected pattern.

Choose preset patterns.

BPM (tempo) when playing patterns
successively

Each pattern has its own specified tempo (BPM). If you play back
patterns successively, the tempo will also change when the pattern
changes.

2.

Use [VALUE] or [INC/DEC] to set the BPM.

3.

Press [F6 (Close)] to close the BPM window.

You can access the BPM window during TR-REC by pressing
[SHIFT]+[F6], or during sampling by pressing [F4].

Using the TAP button

Press [TAP]
desired BPM.

* If desired, you can set the BPM by pressing [TAP] at eighth-note/

three or more times

sixteenth-note intervals (Tap Resolution ->p. 127).

at

quarter-note intervals

of the

Turning the metronome (click) on/off

1.

Press [F6 (BPM/Click)] to access the BPM window.

2.

Press [F5 (Click)] to select on or off.

When on, the “✔” will be displayed.

3.

Press [F6 (Close)] to close the BPM window.

* The metronome volume adjustment is a System setting (Metronome

Level -> p. 117)

If desired, you can maintain the tempo of the first-played pattern
even while switching patterns (BPM Lock ->p. 128).

Selecting the metronome output
destination

1.

Press [F6 (BPM/Click)] to access the BPM window.

2.

Press [CURSOR (up/down)] to move the cursor to
“Output Asgn.”

3.

Use [VALUE] or [INC/DEC] to select the output
destination.

MIX
DIR1
DIR2

Output from the MIX OUT jacks and the headphones.
Output from the DIRECT 1 OUTPUT jacks.
Output from the DIRECT 2 OUTPUT jacks.

25

Playing a pattern

The indicators of the part buttons show the muted state of the
parts as follows:

• Lit: The part can be played.

•

Blinking: The part is muted.

•

Not lit: No performance has been recorded in the part. (The
indicator will light when you record data.)

Muting (silencing) a part

A pattern contains sixteen parts. You can mute (silence) each part in
real time.

fig.1-06

1.

In the Part Mixer section, press [PART] (SELECT/

MUTE) so the indicator is lighted.

Part buttons [1]–[16] now control part muting.

2.

Press the button of the part that you want to mute,

making it blink.

That part will be muted.

3.

To cancel muting, press the button of the muted part

once again, making it light.

All Parts Mute

This function mutes all parts at once.

1.

Hold down [SHIFT] and press [PART ASSIGN].

The sound of all parts will be muted.

All Parts On

This function un-mutes all parts at once.

1.

Hold down [SHIFT] and press [MIXER ASSIGN].

Muting will be cancelled for all parts, so they are all allowed to
play.

Mute Reverse

This function inverts the currently muted and currently playing
parts.

1.

Hold down [SHIFT] and press [TEMPO/MUTE

CONTROL].

The status of parts that are currently muted changes, so they are
allowed to play, while the parts that are currently playing will
be muted.

Mute Remain

This function maintains the mute status of each part while the next
pattern plays. For example, this lets you play the next pattern
without sounding the rhythm part.

1.

During pattern playback, press [PLAY].

The screen will indicate “MUTE REMAIN.”

2.

Select the next pattern.

After a time, the selected pattern will play, with the mute
settings of each part remaining as they were.

When the pattern changes, the Mute Remain function will
automatically be cancelled.

* Mute Remain will be cancelled if you press [PLAY] once again before

the pattern changes.

Solo

This function assigns play-ready status to one specified part, muting
the others.

1.

Hold down [SHIFT] and press the part button [1]–[16]

of the part you want to play.

All parts other than the selected part will be muted.

26

Default Mute

This function restores the part mute settings to the state stored in the
pattern.

1.

Hold down [SHIFT] and press [PART] (SELECT/

MUTE).

The part mute settings will return to the state stored in the
pattern.

About the setup parameters

On the MC-909, the following parameters allow their settings to
be individually stored for each pattern. These parameters are
collectively called the “setup parameters.”

• BPM (Tempo) (p. 25)

• Patch/Rhythm set * (p. 55)

• Part Level * (p. 33)

• Part Pan * (p. 33)

• Part Key Shift * (p. 33)

• Part Reverb Level * (p. 33)

• Part Output Assign * (p. 55)

• Sequencer Output Assign * (p. 55)

• Reverb settings (p. 90)

• Compressor settings (p. 89)

• Multi-effect settings (p. 90, p. 92)

• Part mute status * (p. 26)

• Auto Sync on/off * (p. 36)

* The asterisk indicates parameters that can be set for each part.

Playing a pattern

Velocity pads

These pads work just like a keyboard. They can also be used to play
RPS and the arpeggiator. Normally, pad number 2 will be C4. The
force with which you strike the pads will vary the dynamics
(velocity) of the sound.

You can also set velocity to a fixed value (Pad Velocity ->p. 127).

[HOLD] If you press this button so its indicator lights,

the sound will still be heard even after you
take your finger off the velocity pad. The
sound will stop when you press [HOLD]
once again, extinguishing the indicator.

[OCT -]/[OCT +] These buttons shift the range of the velocity

pads in steps of one octave (maximum +/-4
octaves).

If you press both buttons simultaneously,
the octave shift will be reset to 0.

Various ways to use the velocity pads

[PATTERN CALL] The pads will recall patterns (Pattern

Call, p. 27).

[RPS] The pads will trigger phrases (RPS, p.

28).

[ARPEGGIO] The pads will play arpeggios (Arpeggia-

tor, p. 30).

[CHORD MEMORY] Produce chords by pressing a single pad

(Chord Memory, p. 32).

Registering a pattern in a Pattern Set

1.

Select the pattern you want to register, so it is the

current pattern.

2.

Select the pattern set into which you want to register

that pattern.

3.

Hold down [PATTERN CALL], and press the velocity

pad to which you want to register the pattern.

That pattern will be registered to the pad you pressed.

Saving a Pattern Set

Pattern Set settings that you have edited will be lost when you turn
off the power. If you want to keep your changes, you must save
them as follows.

1.

Hold down [PATTERN CALL] and press [F6 (PtnCall

Setting)].

Alternatively, hold down [SHIFT] and press [F3 (Pattern Call)].
The Pattern Call editing screen will appear.

2.

Use [VALUE] or [INC/DEC] to select the pattern set

that you want to save.

3.

Press [WRITE].

The Write menu screen will appear.
Make sure that “Pattern Set” is highlighted.

4.

Press [ENTER] or [F4 (PCL)].

Pattern Mode

Pattern Call

You can use the sixteen velocity pads as buttons to select patterns.
The patterns that are registered to each of the sixteen velocity pads

are handled as one “pattern set.” You are free to edit the contents of
a pattern set, and can store 50 different sets. You can also switch
between pattern sets during pattern playback.

You can use this method to select either the current pattern or the
next pattern.

* Pattern Call cannot be used in Song mode.

Using Pattern Call

1.

Press [PATTERN CALL] so its indicator is lighted.

2.

Press one of the velocity pads [1]–[16].

The pattern that is registered to the pad you pressed will be
selected.

* [HOLD] and [OCT +/-] will have no effect.

* Pattern Call cannot be used simultaneously with RPS, arpeggiator, or

chord memory.

5.

Assign a name to the pattern set.

For details on how to assign a name, refer to “Saving a pattern”
(p. 43).

6.

When you finish inputting the name, press [F6

(Write)].

A message will ask you for confirmation.

7.

To save the pattern set, press [F6 (Execute)].

* To cancel without saving, press [F5 (Cancel)].

Patterns that are registered in a pattern set allow you to specify setup
parameters that are different than in conventional pattern mode.

Selecting a pattern set

1.

Hold down [PATTERN CALL] and use [VALUE] or

[INC/DEC] to select a set.

27

Playing a pattern

<Note when assigning RPS>

* It is not possible for multi-part phrases to be assigned to each of

the velocity pads. You must mute all parts other than the part
that contains the phrase you wish to assign. If you attempt to
assign a phrase in which two or more parts are un-muted, the
display will indicate “Cannot Assign Phrase!”.

* If you have assigned a phrase from a user pattern to RPS, and

modify the performance data of the pattern that contains that
phrase after it has been assigned, be aware that the phrase played
by RPS will be affected by these modifications. For example if you
delete the performance data of a pattern that contains an assigned
phrase, no sound will be heard when you use RPS to play that
phrase.

* If you assign a phrase from a part that uses MFX, the MFX

settings during RPS playback will be determined by the MFX
settings of the currently selected pattern. This means that the
RPS playback may sound different than the original phrase.

RPS

Any phrase that’s been assigned to one of the sixteen velocity pads
will continue playing as long as you hold down its pad.

The phrases that are registered to the sixteen velocity pads are
handled as one “RPS set.” You are free to edit the contents of an RPS
set, and can store 50 different sets. You can also switch between RPS
sets during pattern playback.

Using RPS

1.

Press [RPS] so its indicator is lighted.

2.

Press one of the velocity pads [1]–[16].

The phrase that is registered to the pad you pressed will
continue playing.

* [OCT +/-] will have no effect.

* RPS cannot be used simultaneously with pattern call, arpeggiator, or

chord memory.

RPS Hold

You can make a phrase continue playing even after you release your
finger from the velocity pad.

• To hold all phrases

Registering a phrase in an RPS set

1.

Select the pattern that contains the phrase you want

to register, so it is the current pattern.

2.

Mute all parts other than the single part you want to

register in RPS.

Refer to p. 26 for details on muting.

You may find it convenient to use the Solo function (p. 26).

3.

Select the RPS set in which you want to register that

phrase.

4.

Hold down [RPS], and press the velocity pad to

which you want to register the phrase.

That phrase will be registered to the pad you pressed.

1.

Press [HOLD] so the indicator is lit.

2.

Press a velocity pad to play a phrase.

You can stop that phrase by pressing the same pad once again.

• To hold individual phrases

1.

Hold down [HOLD] and press a velocity pad to play a

phrase.

[HOLD] will blink, and that phrase will continue playing until
you press the same pad once again.

2.

To play a phrase that you want to hold, hold down

[HOLD] and press the appropriate pad, as described

in step 1.

The phrases will play together.

3.

To play a phrase that you do not want to hold, press

only the appropriate pad.

When you release your finger from the pad, that phrase will
stop playing.

* In steps 1 and 2, you can also press [HOLD] while pressing the

velocity pad to play the phrase, as an alternative to holding down
[HOLD] and then pressing the pad.

To stop all phrases, press [HOLD] so the indicator goes out.

Selecting an RPS set

1.

Hold down [RPS] and use [VALUE] or [INC/DEC] to

select a set.

28

Patterns that are registered in an RPS set allow you to specify setup
parameters that are different than in conventional pattern mode.

Playing a pattern

RPS Settings

1.

Hold down [RPS] and press [F6 (RPS Setting)].

Alternatively, hold down [SHIFT] and press [F4 (RPS)].
The RPS setting screen will appear.

2.

Use [CURSOR (up/down)] to select a parameter.

3.

Use [VALUE] or [INC/DEC] to edit the parameter.

Parameter

RPS Set
RPS Part Part 1–16 RPS part to edit
RPS Part Patch
Bank
RPS Part Patch
Number
RPS Part Output
Select

Remote Key­board Switch

Range Explanation

01–50 RPS set to edit

— Patch assigned to RPS part

—

DRY, MFX1,
MFX2,
COMP,
DIR1, DIR2,
RHY

OFF, ON Refer to p. 128.

How the original sound of
each part will be output

DRY:

Output to MIX OUT­PUT jacks without passing
through effects

MFX1 (2):

multi-effects 1 (or 2)

COMP:

the compressor

DIR1 (2):

RECT 1 (or DIRECT 2)
jacks without passing
through effects

RHY:

the settings of the rhythm
set assigned to the part

Output through

Output through

Output to the DI-

Output according to

Adjusting the settings of the RPS parts

RPS playback uses dedicated RPS parts that are separate from
conventional pattern playback. The patterns that are assigned to
velocity pads [1]–[16] will play RPS parts 1–16.

Here's how to adjust the settings of these RPS parts.

1.

Hold down [RPS] and press [F6 (RPS Setting)].

Alternatively, hold down [SHIFT] and press [F4 (RPS)].
The RPS setting screen will appear.

2.

Press [F3 (RPS Mixer)].

The RPS Mixer screen will appear.

3.

Use the part mixer section to adjust the volume, pan,

etc. of RPS parts 1–16.

Pattern Mode

<RPS Trigger Quantize>

When using RPS during pattern playback, patterns and phrases may
not play back in precise alignment, depending on the timing at
which you press the velocity pads. On the MC-909 you can specify
the playback timing of the phrase, so it will play back in precise
synchronization with the pattern. (RPS Trigger Quantize ->p. 128)

•

REAL:

The phrase will play back immediately, at the timing at which
you pressed velocity pads.

•

16TH, 8TH, QUARTER:

The pattern will be divided into selected note units, and when
you press the velocity pads, the phrase will begin playing at the
beginning of the next note unit.

•

MEASURE:

The pattern will be divided into one-measure units, and when
you press the velocity pads, the phrase will begin playing at the
beginning of the next measure.

* Except when this parameter is set to “REAL,” pressing on the velocity

pads slightly before the actual desired timing will help you
synchronize the phrase to the pattern.

* If the pattern is stopped, the phrase will play back immediately,

regardless of the setting that is selected in the above procedure.

[PART ASSIGN] Selects the RPS parts that will be controlled

by the sliders.

If this indicator is not lighted, parts 1–8
will be controlled. If lit, parts 9–16 will be
controlled.

Sliders Adjust the volume, pan, key, and reverb lev-

el of parts 1–8 or parts 9–16.
Use [F1]--[F4] to select a parameter, and use the sliders to adjust
the values.

Function button

[F1 (Level)]
[F2 (Pan)] Left/right position of the RPS part
[F3 (Key Shift)] Transposition of the RPS part

[F4 (Reverb Level)] Reverb level of the RPS part

* You can also use [CURSOR] to select a part and parameter, and then

use [VALUE] or [DEC/INC] to adjust the value.

4.

Press [F6 (Close)] to close the RPS Mixer screen.

Parameter adjusted by the sliders

Volume of the RPS part

The pitch will change in semitone steps
over a range of +/-4 octaves.

29

Playing a pattern

RPS realtime modify

You can use the panel knobs and sliders to modify the sound of the
phrase being played by RPS.

1.

Press [RPS] to make the indicator light.

2.

Press a velocity pad to play back a phrase.

3.

While holding down a pad, you can operate the

following knobs and sliders to modify the sound of

the phrase.

PITCH: FINE/COARSE TUNE, ENV DEPTH/A/D
FILTER: CUTOFF, RESONANCE, ENV DEPTH/A/D/S/R
AMP: LEVEL, ENV DEPTH/A/D/S/R
LFO1: PITCH DEPTH, FILTER DEPTH, AMP DEPTH,

PAN DEPTH, RATE, WAVEFORM

* Your changes will affect the sound of the phrase assigned to the pad

you pressed last.

* If you take your finger off the pads, the changes you make will apply to

the sound of the current part. The same is true even if you are playing
back a phrase with [HOLD] turned on.

* Operating MATRIX CONTROL 1, RANDOM MODIFY, or FAT

will always affect the sound of the current part.

Saving an RPS set

The edited settings of an RPS set will be lost when you turn off the
power. If you want to keep the settings you edited, save the RPS set
as follows.

1.

Hold down [RPS] and press [F6 (RPS Setting)].

Alternatively, hold down [SHIFT] and press [F4 (RPS)]. The RPS
setting screen will appear.

Arpeggiator

The MC-909’s Arpeggiator function lets you perform arpeggios
(chords in which notes are played in succession, one note at a time)
just by playing the chords, using the notes in the chords you play.

Not only can you use the factory-set arpeggio styles, which
determine the way the arpeggio is played, but you can also freely
rewrite styles.

Using the arpeggiator

1.

Press [ARPEGGIO] so its indicator is lighted.

2.

Press a chord using the velocity pads.

An arpeggio will play according to the specified arpeggio style.

* Arpeggiator cannot be used simultaneously with Pattern Call or RPS.

Selecting an arpeggio style

1.

Hold down [ARPEGGIO] and use [VALUE] or [INC/

DEC] to select a style.

Making arpeggiator settings

Here's how to change the way that the arpeggio is sounded.

1.

Hold down [ARPEGGIO] and press [F6 (Arp Setting)].

Alternatively, hold down [SHIFT] and press [F1 (Arp)].
The arpeggiator setting screen will appear.

2.

Use [CURSOR (up/down)] to select a parameter.

3.

Use [VALUE] or [INC/DEC] to edit the parameter.

2.

Use [VALUE] or [INC/DEC] to select the RPS set that

you want to save.

3.

Press [WRITE].

The Write menu screen will appear.
Make sure that “RPS Set” is highlighted.

4.

Press [ENTER] or [F3 (RPS)].

5.

Assign a name to the RPS set.

For details on how to assign a name, refer to “Saving a pattern”
(p. 50).

6.

When you finish inputting the name, press [F6

(Write)].

A message will ask you for confirmation.

7.

To save, press [F6 (Execute)].

* To cancel without saving, press [F5 (Cancel)].

Using in Combination with the Chord
Memory Function

When performing with the Arpeggiator, you can also use it
along with the Chord Memory (p. 32). After first storing
complex Chord Forms in memory, you can then call them up
when Arpeggiator is on, and you can easily create complex
arpeggio sounds just by pressing a single pad.

Parameter

Arpeggio
Grid (Grid
Type)

Explanation

Sets the particular note division and resolution in a
“single grid” used in creating the arpeggio in an Ar­peggio Style, and how much of a “shuffle” syncopa­tion is to be to applied (none/weak/strong) to it.

1/4:

Quarter note

1/8:

Eighth note

1/8L:

Eighth note shuffle Light

1/8H:

Eighth note shuffle Heavy

1/12:

Eighth note triplet

1/16:

Sixteenth note

1/16L:

Sixteenth note shuffle Light

1/16H:

Sixteenth note shuffle Heavy

1/24:

Sixteenth note triplet

30