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Average Price: $720

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$150

$601+

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Description

Step into the rhythm of nostalgia with the Roland CompuRhythm CR-68, a classic drum machine that takes you back to the heartbeat of the 1970s. Perfect for DJs and musicians looking to add an authentic vintage touch to their sound, the CR-68 combines simplicity with Roland's legendary sound quality. Though it may not have the programmability of its successor, the CR-78, this machine's charm lies in its straightforward operation and the unique character of its presets. Whether you're crafting disco, funk, or exploring other retro genres, the CR-68 serves as an essential tool to inject that old-school vibe into your tracks. Its intuitive interface and diverse rhythm presets make it an inviting addition for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts craving for that classic drum sound.

Key Features:

  • 34 preset rhythms with 5 variations for each, providing a wide range of sounds
  • Dedicated controls for balance and accent, enabling fine-tuning of each beat
  • Classic Fill-In section for dynamic performances
  • Simple, user-friendly interface, perfect for beginners and experts alike
  • Authentic 1970s Roland sound, ideal for adding vintage flair to modern productions

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model CR-68 CompuRhythm
Finish Black
Year 1970s
Categories Drum Machines
Analog / Digital Analog
Polyphony 4 Voices

FAQs

What are the main features of the Roland CompuRhythm CR-68 drum machine?

The Roland CompuRhythm CR-68 is an analog drum machine from the 1970s, featuring 4-voice polyphony and a variety of preset rhythms. It is known for its classic vintage sound and simplicity, lacking programmable patterns but offering a range of preset beats.

How does the sound of the Roland CR-68 compare to other drum machines?

The CR-68 produces a warm, retro analog sound typical of 1970s drum machines. It offers a more straightforward, preset-based experience compared to its sibling, the CR-78, which includes programmable patterns and additional sound shaping capabilities.

Is the Roland CR-68 suitable for live performances?

The CR-68 can be used for live performances, especially in settings that benefit from its vintage sound and straightforward operation. However, its lack of programmability and modern connectivity might limit its flexibility compared to more advanced drum machines.

Can the Roland CR-68 be integrated with modern recording setups?

While the CR-68 is an analog drum machine, it can be integrated into modern recording setups using audio interfaces to capture its output. However, it lacks MIDI or USB connectivity, which may require additional equipment for synchronization with digital setups.

What genres of music is the Roland CR-68 best suited for?

The CR-68 is best suited for genres that appreciate vintage drum machine sounds, such as electronic, synth-pop, and retro-inspired music. Its preset rhythms can also complement various other styles, adding a nostalgic touch to modern productions.

7V-STUDIO

7V-STUDIO

Roland CR-68 Compu Rhythm Drummachine

Video thumbnail for Roland CR-68 Compu Rhythm Drummachine by 7V-STUDIO

Roland CR-68 Compu Rhythm Drummachine

7V-STUDIO

7V-STUDIO

Video thumbnail for ROLAND CR68 DRUM MACHINE by PianoVintage

ROLAND CR68 DRUM MACHINE

PianoVintage

PianoVintage

Video thumbnail for ROLAND CR-68 COMPURHYTHM - Vintage Analog Drum Machine | DEMO by You Are The Robots

ROLAND CR-68 COMPURHYTHM - Vintage Analog Drum Machine | DEMO

You Are The Robots

You Are The Robots

Video thumbnail for Roland CR-68 - Description and Sounddemo by Tastronauten

Roland CR-68 - Description and Sounddemo

Tastronauten

Tastronauten

Video thumbnail for Synthesiser Dave - Episode 14 - Roland CR-68 by Electronic Sound

Synthesiser Dave - Episode 14 - Roland CR-68

Electronic Sound

Electronic Sound

Video thumbnail for The ROLAND CR-68 Analog Preset Drum Machine (1978) by NYC Records

The ROLAND CR-68 Analog Preset Drum Machine (1978)

NYC Records

NYC Records

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland CompuRhythm CR-68.

Comparisons

  • The CR-68 offers the same sounds and presets as the CR-78 but lacks custom pattern programming, making it a more affordable alternative at about a third of the price.

    Source
  • Owners of both the CR-68 and Cyclone Analogic clones note that the clone sounds sharper, whereas the CR-68 delivers a more rounded, authentic vintage sound.

    Source
  • The CR-800 is part of the same family as the CR-68 and CR-78, sharing circuitry, but is larger and includes a built-in speaker.

    Source
  • The CR-8000, although often confused with the CR-800, offers a different sound closer to the 808, featuring the same clap sound.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The CR-68 includes a 1/4 inch CV trigger output, which allows integration with modular setups, a feature valued by users seeking vintage sound in modern contexts.

    Source
  • Users enjoy the ability to layer multiple preset patterns simultaneously, allowing for creative combinations like "disco cha cha" or "waltz tango" beats.

    Source
  • The CR-68 includes tempo control, preset patterns, fills, and mutes, but lacks pattern programmability and individual instrument volume control, unlike the CR-78.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • While the CR-78 can cost around $3,000, the CR-68 is priced significantly lower, with recent purchases around $800, considered a bargain for its vintage condition.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A MIDI kit is available for the CR-68, expanding its capabilities to play individual percussion sounds, an upgrade that appeals to users with modern digital setups.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The CR-68 is favored for its distinct sounds featured prominently on tracks by artists like Ultravox!, Japan, and Gary Numan, highlighting its niche appeal for recreating 80s music styles.

    Source
  • Users seeking simpler vintage drum machines might find the Rhythm Ace appealing, noted for its primitive design and use by artists like Sly Stone.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Moby uses Roland CompuRhythm CR-68

Moby

Music Producer

Vatican Commandos

...
Verified via YouTube

can be seen at 5:43 in the video

See how Roman Komogortsev uses Roland CompuRhythm CR-68

Roman Komogortsev

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Molchat Doma

...
Verified via Photo

A picture of a Roland CR-68 was posted on Molchat Doma's instagram story

See how Mouse On Mars uses Roland CompuRhythm CR-68

Mouse On Mars

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Pulseradio

This article covers MOM's studio gear. The CR-68 is visible in one of the photographs, although it has the wood finish cabinet rather than the black finish cabinet.

See how Isaiah Ikey Owens uses Roland CompuRhythm CR-68

Isaiah Ikey Owens

Keyboardist, Music Producer

The Mars Volta

...
Verified via Photo

Featured in this August 21, 2013 Instagram post and visible in this October 15, 2013 Instagram post.

ikeyowens My Roland cr 78 rhe [sic] most underrated drum machine on ebay. currently in nashville at the casino studio...like to leave pieces of myself all over the planet. And I know @theonlymichaelleeyouknow has mine and it's back!

tommyguerrero There's 1 on ebay 4 1500...!

ikeyowens @tommyguerrero really I saw one last week for 50 bucks

tommyguerrero What??!! Where?i hav been looking for awhile now..i hav the rhythm arranger and the maestro..

ikeyowens got it at future music in la years ago. @tommyguerrero

See how Xeno & Oaklander uses Roland CompuRhythm CR-68

Xeno & Oaklander

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

The CR-68 is clearly in this picture

See how Martial Canterel uses Roland CompuRhythm CR-68

Martial Canterel

Singer, Keyboardist

Xeno And Oaklander

...
Verified via Photo

A CR-68 can be seen in this picture of Sean performing.

See how Paul Millar uses Roland CompuRhythm CR-68

Paul Millar

Singer, Keyboardist

...
Verified via Photo

The CR-68 can be seen in this video Paul Millar posted to his instagram

See how Jimi Sumen uses Roland CompuRhythm CR-68

Jimi Sumen

Singer, Guitarist

Classix Nouveaux

...
Verified via Discogs

The credits for the album, Between Orient And Accidents, list the Roland CR-68.

Album Usage

The Roland CompuRhythm CR-68 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roland CompuRhythm CR-68, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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