Roland has unveiled the MC-707 and MC-101 Grooveboxes, two self-contained production tools designed for today’s electronic music creators, updated with the very latest sounds and a wide range of customization options.
With the versatile MC-707 and MC-101, users can create complete, polished productions with no external gear or easily integrate with modern computer-based music environments. The MC-707 and MC-101 will be available in the U.S. in September 2019 for $999.99 and $499.99 respectively.
In 1996, Roland launched the original MC-303 Grooveboxes and the series evolved with many additional MC models over the next decade. Building on workflows introduced with Roland instruments like the TR-808, TR-909, and TB-303, the Grooveboxes series allowed people without musical training—but with keen musical sensibilities—to create songs quickly and easily, and in some cases, these individuals gave rise to entirely new musical genres and styles.
The MC-707 Grooveboxes offers everything needed to create a song or perform a live set without a computer. Users can immerse themselves in eight-track recording, sequencing, sampling, synthesizers, and studio-grade effects, plus a curated palette of sounds, loops, and phrases. Audio and MIDI can be recorded with deep control over timing, while hands-on faders and knobs inspire in-the-moment creativity.
Equipped with Roland’s latest sound engine, the MC-707 has all the sounds of Roland rhythm machines and synthesizers, but also looks forward with modern digital and hybrid sounds. The eight-track sequencer is optimized for fluid production of today’s electronic-focused music styles, with 16 sensitive pads for playing or sequencing drum parts, melodic basslines, or polyphonic chord progressions. There’s also a TR-REC step sequencer inherited from Roland’s classic drum machines, perfect for building rhythm parts quickly.
With its advanced USB audio interface capabilities, the MC-707 easily flows in and out of any computer production setup. Users can record all eight parts to individual DAW tracks and finish a song there, or sample sounds from a DAW to capture backing tracks, stems, and more for live shows.
The MC-101 Grooveboxes has all the high-quality sounds, sequencing, and effects of the MC-707, but in a more compact four-track version that’s go-everywhere portable. This professional production tool features a solid-yet-light design and runs for up to five hours on four AA batteries, allowing users to craft sounds, create drum patterns, and compose musical phrases just about anywhere.
