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Description

Unleash your creativity with the Roland MC-808 Groovebox, a powerhouse in the world of music production designed to elevate your soundscapes. This versatile unit combines the deep synthesis capabilities of a 128-voice synthesizer engine with intuitive pattern sequencing, making it an essential tool for both studio sessions and live performances. The MC-808’s built-in motorized faders set it apart, offering precise control over your mix with the fluidity of an analog console.

Equipped with a vast array of sounds and effects, the MC-808 caters to a wide range of genres, from electronic and hip-hop to ambient and beyond. Its user-friendly interface allows you to create and manipulate patterns with ease, while the pattern sequencer supports up to 16 parts, providing ample room for complex arrangements. Plus, its USB connectivity ensures seamless integration with your computer, enabling you to import and export samples effortlessly.

Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting your musical journey, the Roland MC-808 Groovebox is designed to inspire and adapt to your creative needs. Its robust construction and portability make it a reliable companion for any gig or studio setup.

Key Features:

  • 128-voice synthesizer engine for rich, dynamic sound production
  • Motorized faders for seamless adjustment and real-time control
  • 16-part pattern sequencer for complex track creation
  • Extensive sound library with diverse genres and styles
  • USB connectivity for easy sample management
  • Built-in effects for added depth and texture
  • Intuitive user interface for efficient workflow
  • Battery or AC-powered for versatile use

Product specs

Brand Roland
Model MC-808 Groovebox
Finish Silver
Year 2010s
Categories Grooveboxes
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Polyphony 128 Voices

FAQs

What is the polyphony of the Roland MC-808 Groovebox?

The Roland MC-808 Groovebox features a polyphony of 128 voices, allowing for complex compositions and rich sound layering.

Does the Roland MC-808 have motorized faders?

Yes, the Roland MC-808 is equipped with motorized faders, which provide real-time, automated control over your mix settings.

Can the Roland MC-808 Groovebox be connected to a computer?

The Roland MC-808 offers USB MIDI connectivity, allowing it to interface with a computer for extended control and integration with digital audio workstations.

Does the Roland MC-808 support MIDI input and output?

The Roland MC-808 includes both MIDI input and output ports, enabling it to connect with other MIDI-compatible devices for enhanced sequencing and control.

Is the Roland MC-808 Groovebox suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Roland MC-808 is designed for live use, featuring real-time controls and motorized faders that make it suitable for dynamic live performances.

KnockSquared

KnockSquared

Daft Punk -Harder Stronger Faster Remix on MC-808

Video thumbnail for Daft Punk -Harder Stronger Faster Remix on MC-808 by KnockSquared

Daft Punk -Harder Stronger Faster Remix on MC-808

KnockSquared

KnockSquared

Video thumbnail for Roland MC 808 - FUTAGO SOUNDS - DO YOU KNOW MC 808? Live Session ✅ by Futago Sounds

Roland MC 808 - FUTAGO SOUNDS - DO YOU KNOW MC 808? Live Session ✅

Futago Sounds

Futago Sounds

Video thumbnail for Roland Groovebox MC-808 - Never Enough by radiofreebc

Roland Groovebox MC-808 - Never Enough

radiofreebc

radiofreebc

Video thumbnail for Roland MC-808 by MyRetroGear Demos

Roland MC-808

MyRetroGear Demos

MyRetroGear Demos

Video thumbnail for Ambient & Drones Episode 3: Roland MC-808 Sampling Groovebox by Ambient, Glitches, & Drones

Ambient & Drones Episode 3: Roland MC-808 Sampling Groovebox

Ambient, Glitches, & Drones

Ambient, Glitches, & Drones

Video thumbnail for DJ Digital JOSH僕 - Feel The Vibe of the Roland MC-808 by DJ Digital Josh

DJ Digital JOSH僕 - Feel The Vibe of the Roland MC-808

DJ Digital Josh

DJ Digital Josh

Video thumbnail for Synths in a Minute: Roland MC-808. by Planet Zaxxon

Synths in a Minute: Roland MC-808.

Planet Zaxxon

Planet Zaxxon

Reviews

PROS

  • Doubled note polyphony (128 vs 64) enhances musical complexity

  • Flying faders function for dynamic control

  • Combines sampling, drum machine, sequencer in one

  • High-quality, tweakable built-in sounds and patterns

  • Extensive connectivity options for versatile studio setups

  • Serves as a powerful alternative to DAWs for track creation

CONS

  • Deep parameter editing requires software, limiting standalone use

  • Some onboard sounds considered lacking in quality

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland MC-808 Groovebox.

Features and functionality

  • The motorized faders on the MC-808 can start moving erratically, which some owners find both cool and annoying due to the noise they create.

    Source
  • The Arpeggio creator is highlighted as an awesome feature, enhancing creative sequencing capabilities.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Running the editor software on modern computers can be challenging, often requiring a virtual machine with a supported Windows version for sample assignment.

    Source
  • Running the editor on an XP virtual machine, even on Linux, is a workaround for modern compatibility issues.

    Source

Build quality

  • The MC-808 is notably large, roughly the size of a 20" monitor, which can make finding an appropriate bag for transport difficult.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MC-808 is considered a letdown by users who transitioned from the MC-909, which is often viewed as superior in terms of features and performance.

    Source
  • Some users transitioned from the MC-303 and MC-505, noting the MC-808's compelling features despite previous gear experiences.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • RAM upgrades are noted as inexpensive, though the setup process for the editor software is cumbersome on modern systems.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The D-Beam controller is frequently mentioned for its unique and engaging interaction in live performances.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners appreciate the visual feedback from motorized faders, which help track parameter settings efficiently.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 15 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
P

[deleted]

jimmarchi1

wow, I remember these.... great step sequencer, awful EVERYTHING ELSE

M

High Quality Machine

Great sequencer, QUALITY SOUNDS. Highly underestimated and unapreciated. Best device ever bought. No feelings of regret

From Gear Setup
elektrikki

For that dinkey toy sound

Powerful sequencer but the onboard sounds are a bit lame...

M

????

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jean Michel Jarre uses Roland MC-808 Groovebox

Jean Michel Jarre

Keyboardist, Music Producer

The Dustbins

...
Verified via YouTube

On this video, Jarre promote the MC-808 Groovebox from Roland and explain that he use it to make rythmic and bass sound. Can be seen at kl 2:27 and 1:15.

See how Mix-Roman uses Roland MC-808 Groovebox

Mix-Roman

Guitarist, Drummer

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo posted by Mix-Roman on his instagram, at the top of the photo we can see his Groovebox

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 MC-808 Groovebox, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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