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Roland SP-606

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$505.57 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (5)

1 Critic Review

3 Reviews

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5 community setups

8 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jun 09, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 9, 2026.

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5.0 (1)

$505.57 3 available Used

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Average Price: $506

Standard/Professional

$399

$900+

Price Tier

In the Production & Groove category, Roland SP-606 is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Description

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The Roland SP-606 is a versatile sampling workstation that combines dynamic performance features with intuitive design, making it a powerhouse for producers and live performers alike. Building on the success of the SP-505, this device is ideal for creating immersive grooves and intricate soundscapes. Its 4x4 velocity-sensitive pads allow for precise rhythm programming, while the D Beam controller offers unique real-time control over effects and sound modulation.

Equipped with a host of powerful effects, including Isolator, Reverb, and Tape Echo, the SP-606 ensures every track is polished to perfection. The integrated 4-track sequencer supports up to 18,000 notes, giving you the flexibility to layer and arrange complex compositions. With the ability to import and export WAV/AIFF files via its USB and CompactFlash compatibility, this workstation is as connected as it is creative.

Bundled with Cakewalk's P606 software, the SP-606 transforms into a comprehensive phrase generator and virtual groovebox, allowing seamless integration with your PC. Whether you're sampling new sounds or refining your existing library, the SP-606's sophisticated features make it an indispensable tool for modern music production.

Key Features:

4x4 velocity-sensitive pads for intuitive rhythm control
45 built-in multi-effects including Reverb and Tape Echo
D Beam controller for unique real-time performance effects
4-track sequencer with 18,000 note capacity and BPM sync
CompactFlash slot and USB connectivity for WAV/AIFF import/export
Bundled with Cakewalk P606 software for enhanced PC integration
8-voice polyphony with 44.1 kHz sampling frequency
Graphic LCD for precise sample editing and waveform display

Product specs

Brand	Roland
Model	SP-606 Sampler
Finish	Black
Year	2000s
Categories	Samplers
Analog / Digital	Digital
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Pads	16 Pads
Polyphony	8 Voices

FAQs

What are the key features of the Roland SP-606 sampler?: The Roland SP-606 offers 16 pads, 8-voice polyphony, and over 40 effects including Isolator, Filter + Drive, and Reverb. It also features the D Beam controller for hands-on effect manipulation and supports MIDI and USB MIDI connectivity.
How many samples can the Roland SP-606 store internally?: The Roland SP-606 can store up to 128 samples internally, allowing for extensive sample manipulation and performance capabilities.
Can the Roland SP-606 be used as a MIDI controller?: Yes, the Roland SP-606 can function as a MIDI controller through its MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and USB MIDI connections, making it versatile for studio setups.
What type of effects can I expect from the Roland SP-606?: The SP-606 includes a variety of effects such as Slicer, Reverb, Tape Echo, and more, providing a wide range of sound shaping options for creative production.
Is the Roland SP-606 suitable for live performances?: Yes, with its 16 pads, real-time effects, and intuitive control features like the D Beam, the SP-606 is well-suited for dynamic live performances.

Videos

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RUGBY music

Roland Sp-606 Sampler Review and Walkthrough

RUGBY music

Conductor Williams - SP 606 BEAT TAPE

ConductorWilliams

Roland SP-606 / First Impressions & What Makes it Different?

Matt Greer Music

The Roland / Boss SP Sampler Series - Episode 5 - The Roland SP-606 Sampling Workstation

Matt Greer Music

Roland SP-606 Sampling Workstation: have fun, be creative!

Chris Mick Studentsmusic

ROLAND SP 606 Sampler Devotional Loop 🎵

Akash Chand

Summer Vibe Beatmaking on Roland SP-606 | #sp606 #beatmaking |

vubeatz

First Beatmaking on SP-606 | #sp606 #beatmaking |

vubeatz

Piano Trumpet Beatmaking on SP-606 | #sp606 #beatmaking |

vubeatz

Weird Rhodes Beat on Roland SP-606 | #sp606 #beatmaking |

vubeatz

Reviews

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PROS

Packs a lot of features other SP models lack
Simple sequencer facilitates ease of use
Resampling is super easy
Capable of chaining 2 effects together
Functions as a hybrid standalone or MIDI controller
Linux compatible; doubles as audio/MIDI interface
Unique effect capabilities ("EFX from the gods")
Includes mute groups, a feature exclusive to this model
Encourages creativity with workarounds for its limitations
Direct sampling from external sources like YouTube possible

CONS

Sub-par time stretching quality
Limited chopping capabilities; only 4 tracks available
Small LCD screen can be a drawback
Lacks 16-level pitch control
Cannot resample patterns directly
8 note polyphony limit
Requires workaround for using with Windows 7

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roland SP-606.

Features and functionality

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The SP-606 can function as an audio interface, controller, and sampler simultaneously, offering dual MFX that operate independently.
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It includes a four-track sequencer, which is distinct from the SP-404's capabilities.
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The SP-606 requires P606 software for pattern resampling, unlike the SP-404 MKII, which offers built-in resampling capabilities.
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SP-404 MKII's effect settings reset to default upon powering down, requiring users to document settings manually for consistent use.
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The SP-606's song structuring is particularly beneficial for musicians wanting to perform pre-programmed songs without using a computer on stage.
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User experience

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Some users find the SP-606's workflow unusual compared to other models like the SP-404.
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SP-606 owners note the challenge of resampling only three samples per bank, highlighting a workflow limitation compared to other models.
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Value and pricing

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At $250, it's considered a worthwhile purchase due to its rarity in certain regions and its enhanced features over the SP-404.
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Used SP-606 units are typically priced around $330, which aligns with expectations for its unique song structuring capability in live performances.
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Use cases and applications

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Despite its lack of portability, the SP-606 is favored by some as their primary machine due to its comprehensive functionality.
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The SP-606 allows chaining up to 16 patterns to create a song, accommodating time signatures from 2/4 to 32/4, ideal for preloading full-song drum rhythms.
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Comparisons

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The SP-404 MKII allows pattern editing and features Pitch/Speed control with improved timestretching, while the SP-606 lacks these enhancements.
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An MPC 1000 with JJOS is recommended for live use due to its portability, robust sequencing, and finger drumming-friendly velocity-sensitive pads, as opposed to the SP-606.
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Software and compatibility

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P606 software is necessary for certain SP-606 functionalities like resampling patterns, but its compatibility with Mac is uncertain due to its age.
Source

Critic Reviews

Roland SP-606 Review: More Than A Sampling Workstation – Synthtopia

synthtopia.com

The Roland SP-606 shines as a versatile sampling workstation, offering a remarkable blend of features like velocity-sensitive pads, extensive effects, and flexible connectivity options—all at a friendly price. Its integration with Cakewalk’s P606 software and the inclusion of the D-Beam controller add layers of creative potential, making it suitable for diverse musical genres beyond hip-hop and dance. However, its build may not withstand rigorous performance use, and the loss of effects settings upon rebooting is a notable inconvenience. Despite these drawbacks, its functionality as a sampler, drum machine, and MIDI/audio interface makes it a compelling choice for both budding and seasoned producers.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 5 Ratings

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samil

536

over 4 years ago

underrated sampler in the SP family

Love this sampler, some limitations (sub-par time stretching, limited chopping capabilities), but overall packs in a lot of features other SP's lack. simple sequencer, only 4-tracks but I've always made it work. resampling is super easy. chain 2 effects together. This was one of the first (if not the first) true hybrid standalone. It could also be used as a controller with USB cable. The 404 series gets all the shine but the 606 is a very capable machine.

Roles:

Composer Music Producer DJ

Genres:

Hip Hop Deep house Neo soul

From Gear Setup

mrthraz

492

over 10 years ago

good sampler to have if paired with computer (laptop)

cons: 8 note poly, only 4 tracks, small lcd, no 16 level pitch, can't resample patterns, weak time stretch.

pros: Linux compatible. audio/midi interface. can be used as a midi controller, EFX from the gods!! has mute groups. (the only SP that does.)

to understand the attraction to the Roland/Boss SP-Sampler series you have to know what an SP is: just enough midi/sequencing to get by as a sequencer, just enough audio routing to be a sampler.. but an effects engine beast. consequently where SP's fail you as a sampler you have to make up for those failing with the effects. it forces a lot of creativity out of you.

almost all of its weakness have a workaround involving the efx's: you can't resample patterns but you can resample the delay buffer, if the wet and the echo are all the way up you can get a whole bar in there.

if I want 16 levels, I can resample a button pressed 16 times while changing the pitch effect with a knob before auto-chopping across the pad bank. add to that: this thing is an audio interface, i.e. sampling directly from youtube.

windows 7 requires a hack to get working that can be found at the sp forums. more than worth the $250 i spent on it.

Roles:

Rapper Composer Music Producer

Genres:

Electronic Pop Hip Hop

From Gear Setup