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Description

The Roland CSQ-100 is a vintage gem in the world of audio sequencers, offering a timeless approach to electronic music production. Originally released in the 1980s, this piece of gear is ideal for DJs and electronic musicians who appreciate the charm of analog technology. The CSQ-100 provides a straightforward interface that allows for intuitive sequence programming, making it a favorite among those who enjoy hands-on control over their sound.

With its single-track monophonic sequencer, the CSQ-100 is perfect for layering simple yet effective sequences. It supports up to 12,000 notes, offering ample space for creativity. The device can store up to four sequences, allowing for seamless transitions during live performances. Its compatibility with DIN sync ensures easy integration with other vintage Roland gear, such as the TR-808 or TB-303, for a cohesive setup.

This sequencer is equipped with a step-time input method, enabling precise control over note placement and rhythm. The real-time control feature allows musicians to adjust tempo and playback on the fly, enhancing performance flexibility. The CSQ-100 remains a testament to Roland's commitment to quality, marrying robust construction with a user-friendly design that continues to inspire musicians worldwide.

Key Features:

  • Monophonic sequencer with a step-time input method
  • Stores up to 4 sequences with a total of 12,000 notes
  • Real-time control for tempo adjustments and playback
  • Compatible with DIN sync for integration with other vintage gear
  • Simple, intuitive interface for hands-on programming

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model CSQ-100 Sequencer
Finish Black
Year 1979 - 1983
Made In Japan
Categories Sequencers
Analog / Digital Digital

FAQs

What type of connectivity does the Roland CSQ-100 offer for interfacing with other gear?

The Roland CSQ-100 features CV/Gate outputs, making it compatible with analog synthesizers and other vintage CV/Gate-equipped gear.

Can the Roland CSQ-100 store multiple sequences?

The Roland CSQ-100 can store up to four different sequences, allowing users to switch between them during performances.

Is the Roland CSQ-100 suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Roland CSQ-100 is designed for live use, offering real-time control over sequence playback, making it ideal for dynamic performances.

How does the Roland CSQ-100 handle tempo control?

The CSQ-100 allows for manual tempo adjustment, giving users precise control over the speed of their sequences.

What power supply does the Roland CSQ-100 require?

The Roland CSQ-100 requires an external power supply, typically a standard AC adapter suitable for vintage Roland gear.

David Klotz

David Klotz

Duran Duran "Save a Prayer" arpeggio - Roland SH-2 and CSQ-100

Video thumbnail for Duran Duran "Save a Prayer" arpeggio - Roland SH-2 and CSQ-100 by David Klotz

Duran Duran "Save a Prayer" arpeggio - Roland SH-2 and CSQ-100

David Klotz

David Klotz

Video thumbnail for Roland CSQ-100 quick test by SynthMania

Roland CSQ-100 quick test

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for Martin Roland - CSQ 100 + SH by Cypress Čempr3s

Martin Roland - CSQ 100 + SH

Cypress Čempr3s

Cypress Čempr3s

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland CSQ-100.

Features and functionality

  • The Roland CSQ-100 lacks external sync capability, making it incompatible with setups relying on MIDI clock synchronization.

    Source
  • The CSQ-100 allows for 164 steps in sequencing, and pairing it with a two-channel step sequencer can enable sequencing of 3-note chords.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The MPU-101 can accept MIDI clock and output triggers, but this feature cannot be used simultaneously with CV conversion for setups involving the CSQ-100.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The CSQ-100 can be triggered by specific drum hits, like kick and snare, but may struggle with short gate times from certain drum machines like the HR-16.

    Source
  • When used with the Roland System 100 104 or 100m 182, the CSQ-100 can sequence chords, adding versatility to its single-channel capability.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Adding a resistor to the cable may help if the gate time from a drum machine is too short to trigger the CSQ-100.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The CSQ-100 is similar to the CSQ-600, but the latter offers 600 steps and adds programmable portamento for each step, enhancing its functionality.

    Source
  • The MSQ-700 offers real-time recording and rudimentary quantization, unlike the CSQ-100, and supports both MIDI and DCB, providing broader connectivity options.

    Source

3.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

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See how Vangelis uses Roland CSQ-100

Vangelis

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Aphrodite's Child

...
Verified via Google Books

In Mark J. T. Griffin's book, "Vangelis: The Unknown Man," it is noted that Vangelis utilized the Roland CSQ-100 audio sequencer.

See how Nick Rhodes uses Roland CSQ-100

Nick Rhodes

Keyboardist

Duran Duran

...
Verified via YouTube

Nick mentions in this video that he used a Roland SH-2, and the CSQ-100, on both The Chauffeur, and Save A Prayer.

See how Chris Carter uses Roland CSQ-100

Chris Carter

Keyboardist

Throbbing Gristle

...
Verified via Boing Boing

The gear is... (Left side - top down): Boss PH-1 phaser pedal, Simmons ClapTrap, Roland SRE-555 Chorus Echo, Roland SH-7 Synth, Boss DR-55 Dr.Rhythm, Roland CSQ 100 sequencer, Roland CR-78 CompuRhythm.

See how Richard H. Kirk uses Roland CSQ-100

Richard H. Kirk

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Cabaret Voltaire

...
Verified via The Quietus

"I'd got a Roland CSQ-100 Sequencer and a Roland SH09 Synth and a TR-808. I’d had the 808 for a while and not really used it but I was noticing that people were using them on these electro records. I was writing stuff on the sequencer and drum machine and we’d build stuff around that."

See how David A. Stewart uses Roland CSQ-100

David A. Stewart

Singer, Guitarist

Eurythmics

...
Verified via Muzines

"I like mixing synths as well, like on Aqua, from the Touch album. There I've got a SH09 with a CSQ100, playing a bassline with just a sub bass, no other frequencies, so it's just a very round, resonant sound. But then I got an acoustic guitar and recorded the fret noise — just the top of the fret noise playing the same thing — and mixed the two together, and it sounds exactly like a double bass. That I find a lot more interesting than straight synthesiser sounds."

See how Steve Levine uses Roland CSQ-100

Steve Levine

Composer, Music Producer

Culture Club

...
Verified via Muzines

"But I've worked with sequencers since the day they first came out, so all these things are nothing compared with the problems I used to have. Years ago, even just a simple thing like a synthesizer going out of tune was a major headache in the studio. I've worked with every conceivable computer programmed sequencer - from the Roland CSQ-100, to the Prophet switch type, to the ARP ones that had the sixteen click thing that you'd line the notes up with. I've worked with an ARP 2600 synth also - in fact, I've just bought an ARP 1600 which I'm very pleased to have as part of my set-up here. But people just make such a big deal out of MIDI and sequencing."

See how The BBC Radiophonic Workshop uses Roland CSQ-100

The BBC Radiophonic Workshop

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Whitefiles

List of synthesizers that the radiophonic workshop used in 1985

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 CSQ-100, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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