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Roland MC-500 MkII Micro Composer

Roland MC-500 MkII Micro Composer

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$135.00

1 Critic Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

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Description

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Step into the world of sequencer mastery with the Roland MC-500 MkII Micro Composer. This audio sequencer is a staple for DJs and musicians who crave precision and versatility in their compositions. An upgraded version of its predecessor, the MC-500 MkII enhances your creative workflow with its powerful 104,000-note memory, ensuring you never run out of space for your intricate compositions. Designed to support both live performance tweaking and studio production, this micro composer offers true flexibility in one compact device.

The MC-500 MkII features an intuitive interface that caters to both seasoned professionals and aspiring creators. Its real-time recording and editing capabilities make it an ideal tool for crafting complex sequences with ease. With an extensive set of onboard functions, this sequencer allows for seamless integration into your existing setup, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of MIDI devices. The versatile pattern-based sequencing is perfect for creating dynamic arrangements, while the built-in disk drive provides convenient data storage and retrieval.

Whether you're looking to produce intricate beats or orchestrate full tracks, the Roland MC-500 MkII Micro Composer is engineered to help you achieve your musical ambitions with precision and ease.

Key Features:

104,000-note memory for extensive sequencing
Real-time recording and editing capabilities
Comprehensive pattern-based sequencing
Onboard disk drive for data storage and retrieval
Compatible with a wide range of MIDI devices
Ideal for both live performance and studio production

Product specs

Brand	Roland
Model	MC-500 MKII MicroComposer
Finish	White
Year	1988
Made In	Japan
Categories	Sequencers
Analog / Digital	Digital
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through

FAQs

What are the main functions of the Roland MC-500 MkII Micro Composer?: The Roland MC-500 MkII is a digital sequencer designed for MIDI composition and performance. It allows users to record, edit, and playback MIDI sequences, making it ideal for live performances and studio work.
How does the Roland MC-500 MkII integrate with other MIDI devices?: The MC-500 MkII features MIDI Input, Output, and Through ports, enabling seamless integration with other MIDI-compatible gear such as synthesizers, drum machines, and samplers.
Is the Roland MC-500 MkII suitable for live performances?: Yes, the MC-500 MkII is well-suited for live performances due to its robust MIDI sequencing capabilities, allowing for complex arrangements and real-time playback control.
Can the Roland MC-500 MkII handle multiple tracks for sequencing?: The Roland MC-500 MkII can manage multiple tracks, providing users with the flexibility to create intricate compositions by layering different MIDI parts.
What distinguishes the Roland MC-500 MkII from other sequencers of its time?: The MC-500 MkII stands out with its user-friendly interface, reliable performance, and advanced editing features, making it a popular choice for musicians and producers in the late 1980s.

Videos

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SynthMania

'80s style sequencing with Roland MC-500 mkII

SynthMania

Roland MC-500 mkII: Basic MIDI Recording tutorial

The MIDI Maniac (Roger)

Shannon' (OB-XA Matrix6 MC-500 MKII Synthesizers) By AnalogSynthMuseum

AnalogSynthMuseum

808 Orchestra (Tr808 OB-XA Matrix6 DMX Synthesizers) by MIKE303

AnalogSynthMuseum

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland MC-500 MkII Micro Composer.

Features and functionality

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The addition of a USB reader significantly enhances the reliability of the MC-500 MkII, especially for those experiencing issues with the original floppy drive.
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Mods and upgrades

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Owners suggest using smoked perspex for a custom frame to fit a USB stick and buttons, achieving a period-correct look with red LEDs.
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Users recommend using M41256 DRAM by OKI, KM41256A by Samsung, or M5M4256P by Mitsubishi, ensuring matching latency (100 ns, 120 ns) for memory replacement.
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User experience

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The MC-500 MkII's industrial-grade keypad and alpha dial make it a robust choice for 5-pin DIN MIDI gear, appreciated for its keystroke workflow.
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Setup and maintenance

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Installing a Gotek floppy emulator is straightforward, requiring just a few screws, thermal paste, and file setup on a USB drive.
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Replacing faulty memory involves de-soldering 8 x M41256 memories and installing sockets for easier future replacements.
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Error messages like "IC2" may not directly correspond to the specific faulty memory slot, requiring thorough testing of all memory slots.
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Critic Reviews

Roland MC500 MkII (SOS Oct 88)

muzines.co.uk

While the Roland MC-500 MkII Micro Composer showcases significant enhancements like expanded note storage and improved software editing capabilities, it falters with its outdated LCD display, limiting user experience during complex compositions. The eight song memory may feel restrictive for live performance, especially when compared to modern software alternatives offering extensive track options. Despite its reliability and comprehensive editing features, the MC-500 MkII struggles to compete in a market increasingly dominated by more versatile and visually informative computer-based sequencers. For dedicated hardware enthusiasts, it remains a solid choice, but others might find better value elsewhere.

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Artist usage

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Legowelt

Music Producer

Verified via Attack Magazine

On this interview, Legowelt presents his studio and states: "Sequencing is done either by hardware sequencers like the Yamaha RM1x or the QY series, my Roland MC-500 mk2, Korg Electribes or with the computer."

Jon Carin

Keyboardist, Composer

Pink Floyd

Verified via Photo

This sequencer was mentioned in the booklet of the reissue CD release of "P.U.L.S.E.".

Meat Beat Manifesto

Music Producer

The Orb vs. Meat Beat Manifesto

Verified via Muzines

"Out of the studio and on to the stage, the emphasis falls on sampling. A fully-expanded Akai S1000 does most of the hard work (Dangers calls it "the brain") in conjunction with a pair of Octapads. Additionally there's a Korg M1, a Yamaha RX5 for certain drum duties, and a Roland MC500 MkII sequencer."

Andrzej Korzyński

Keyboardist, Composer