MC-808

Sampling Groovebox
New-Generation Groovebox with Motorized Faders
From the company that made groovebox a household name comes a remarkable addition to the famous Roland groovebox family: the MC-808. Optimized for realtime performance,The sleek, silver powerstation features eight motorized faders on its surface a groovebox first! With Rolands most sophisticated processor at its core, the MC-808 has top-of-the-line sampling, sequencing, and synthesizer functions, yet it comes in at a new, low price point. For beat-makers, producers, remixers, live performers, and DJs, no sampling groovebox offers more bang for the buck than the MC-808.
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Flagship Features

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------The MC-808 shares two key attributes with its elder sibling, the flagship MC-909: The same top-of-the-line sampling and sequencing features that made the MC-909 so famous are built into the MC-808, making it a serious tool for sampling, editing, track building, and mixing. Performers are in for an extra treat with the MC-808, however, as it has a remarkable feature that no other groovebox has. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Sounds & Patterns
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------MC-808's internal sounds and patterns have been created fresh by artists around the world. Make no mistake these slammin new dance and hip-hop grooves are instantly ready for primetime. A few "must have" sounds from the MC-909 are also included. But playing and manipulating the internal patterns is only half the fun. The MC-808 allows you to sample any sounds you like, edit them, and add them to your productions. You can even import WAV and AIFF files from your computer into the MC-808 via USB. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Motorized Faders

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Motorized faders on an affordable groovebox?! Youre not dreaming. The MC-808 is the worlds first groovebox with this feature! Sure, the motorized faders look cool, but they also provide serious power for live performers. No matter what pattern you call up, the faders will snap to the proper position. As a result, the parameter values and position of the faders always correspond, allowing you to see the values instantly and make changes directly. No more unexpected jumps in values when you grab a fader in mid-performance. Its always in the right position. Plus, from the fader movements you can see automations such as filter, pan, and part levels changes. If you want to cancel and control the faders manually, simply move the touch-sensitive faders.

Editing Software

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Live performance with the MC-808, and fine edits on your computer. The MC-808 ships with an editor software (Mac OS X, Win XP/2000) that lets you perform serious sample editing tasks on the luxury of your large computer monitor. Use the patch editor to tweek sounds and work on the part editor for part mixing to finish up your patterns.
* Actual product appearance may be subject to change.

q 128-voice polyphony synthesizer engine q 8 motorized faders a groovebox first! q Brand new sounds and patterns q Powerful sampling & sequencing features
q Editor software included (PC/Mac) for editing samples, patches, and parts q CompactFlash slot for memory backup q USB for MIDI and storage to import and export AIF/WAV file q 16-step pad bank, D Beam controller

MC-808 Specifications

[Sound Generator Section] s Maximum Polyphony 128 voices (shared with the sampling section) s Sampling Frequency 44.1 kHz s Parts 16 (Main) + 16 (RPS) s Waves 622 s Patches User: 1,024 (pre-load: TBA), Card: 256 s Rhythm Set User: 128 (pre-load: TBA), Card: 128 [Sampling Section] s Data Format 16-bit linear (File Type WAV/AIFF) s Maximum Polyphony shared with the sound generator section s Sampling Frequency 44.1 kHz (fixed) s Maximum Sampling Time Internal Memory (4 MB) only: mono: 45 sec. approx. (stereo 22.5 sec. approx.), Fully expanded with DIMM (516 MB): mono: 97 min. approx. (stereo 48 min. approx.) s Samples User: 2,000, Card: 7,000 [Sequencer Section] s Parts 16 + Tempo/Mute Control s Resolution 480 ticks per quarter note s Tempo s Maximum Note Storage approx. 1,300,000 notes s Patterns User: 800, Card: 800 s Recording Mode Realtime, TR-REC, Step s Songs 50 s Arpeggio Style 128 s Chord Memory 128 s RPS Set 50 s Pattern Set 50 [Effects Section] s Reverb 1 (4 types) s Compressor 1 (1 type) s Pitch Shifter (for external input) 1 (1 type) [Mastering Section] s 3-bands Compressor 1 (1 type) [Expansion Slot] s Sampling Memory Expansion DIMM 1 slot, Number of pins: 168-pin, Speed: 100 MHz (PC100 CL=2), 133 MHz (PC133 CL=3), Voltage: 3.3 V, Capacity: 128 MB, 256 MB, 512 MB, Board height: 38 mm or less s External Memory Save Pattern/Patch/Sample, CompactFlash card: 1 slot, Compatible up to 1 GB (3.3 V) [Controllers, Display] s Display Pattern Number Display: 7 segment 3 character (LED) x 2, BPM Display: 7 segment 4 character (LED) x 1, 20 x 2 character type LCD (with backlit) s Control Knob OUTPUT Volume: 1, INPUT Volume: 1 s Control Slider Motorized Fader x 8 (touch sensitive) s Other Controller D Beam Controller s Connectors MIX OUTPUT Jack (L (MONO), R), DIRECT 1 OUTPUT Jack (L (MONO), R), INPUT Jack (L (MONO), R), Headphones Jack, MIDI Connectors (IN/OUT), USB Connector (USB MIDI, Mass Storage Class), DC IN s Power Supply AC 117 V, AC 230 V, AC 240 V s Power Consumption Approx. 40 W s Accessories Owners Manual/Quick Start, Contents List, AC Adaptor (PSB-3U, AC Cord), Card Protector * The specifications are subject to change without notice.

NORTH AMERICA

CANADA
Roland Canada Music Ltd. (Head Office) 5480 Parkwood Way Richmond B. C., V6V 2M4 CANADA TEL: (604) Roland Canada Music Ltd. (Toronto Office) 170 Admiral Boulevard Mississauga On L5T 2N6 CANADA TEL: (905) 362 9707
Rivera Digitec (India) Pvt. Ltd. 409, Nirman Kendra Mahalaxmi Flats Compound Off. Dr. Edwin Moses Road, Mumbai-400011, INDIA TEL: (022) 2493 9051

BRAZIL

Roland Brasil Ltda. Rua San Jose, 780 Sala B Parque Industrial San Jose Cotia - Sao Paulo - SP, BRAZIL TEL: (011) 4615 5666

PANAMA

SUPRO MUNDIAL, S.A. Boulevard Andrews, Albrook, Panama City, REP. DE PANAMA TEL: 315-0101

HUNGARY

Roland East Europe Ltd. Warehouse Area DEPO Pf.83 H-2046 Torokbalint, HUNGARY TEL: (23) 511011

INDONESIA

PT Citra IntiRama J1. Cideng Timur No. 15J-150 Jakarta Pusat INDONESIA TEL: (021) 6324170

CYPRUS

Radex Sound Equipment Ltd. 17, Diagorou Street, Nicosia, CYPRUS TEL: (022) 66-9426
Comercial Fancy II S.A. Rut.: 96.919.420-1 Nataniel Cox #739, 4th Floor Santiago - Centro, CHILE TEL: (02) 688-9540

PARAGUAY

Distribuidora De Instrumentos Musicales J.E. Olear y ESQ. Manduvira Asuncion PARAGUAY TEL: (595) 21 492147

IRELAND

Roland Ireland G2 Calmount Park, Calmount Avenue, Dublin 12 Republic of IRELAND TEL: (01) 4294444
MOCO INC. No.41 Nike St., Dr.Shariyati Ave., Roberoye Cerahe Mirdamad Tehran, IRAN TEL: (021) 285-4169
Cosmos Corporation 1461-9, Seocho-Dong, Seocho Ku, Seoul, KOREA TEL: (02) 3486-8855

U. S. A.

Roland Corporation U.S. 5100 S. Eastern Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90040-2938, U. S. A. TEL: (323) 890 3700

COLOMBIA

Centro Musical Ltda. Cra 43 B No 25 A 41 Bododega 9 Medellin, Colombia TEL: (574)3812529
Audionet Distribuciones Musicales SAC Juan Fanning 530 Miraflores Lima - Peru TEL: (511) 4461388
Roland Italy S. p. A. Viale delle Industrie 8, 20020 Arese, Milano, ITALY TEL: (02) 937-78300

MALAYSIA

Roland Asia Pacific Sdn. Bhd. 45-1, Block C2, Jalan PJU 1/39, Dataran Prima, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, MALAYSIA TEL: (03) 7805-3263

ISRAEL

Halilit P. Greenspoon & Sons Ltd. 8 Retzif Ha'aliya Hashnya St. Tel-Aviv-Yafo ISRAEL TEL: (03) 6823666
Convention used in this manual
Words enclosed in square brackets indicate buttons on the panel. (p. **) indicates a reference page. 985 * The explanations in this manual include illustrations that depict what should typically be shown by the display. Note, however, that your unit may incorporate a newer, enhanced version of the system (e.g., includes newer sounds), so what you actually see in the display may not always match what appears in the manual.
As of December 10, 2005 (ROLAND)

An interface thats designed for intuitive operation
In addition to the motorized faders that give you a peerless advantage for live performances, the panel provides luminous lighting to indicate the state of the parameters controlled by those faders, and large highly visible 7-segment LEDs to unmistakably indicate pattern changes and the current BPM. With Rolands unique D Beam controller, which lets you control various parameters simply by moving your hand over it, the MC-808 gives you a total package thats easy to understand and easy to use.
Cutting-edge patterns from worldwide artists
Artists from North America, Europe, Japan, and elsewhere have provided their latest patterns created for the dance scene, with a total of 256 patterns categorized by artist, covering a broad range of styles including techno, trance, house, hip hop, and R&B.

V-LINK function

V-LINK ( ) is a function that provides for the play of music and visual material. By using V-LINK-compatible video equipment, visual effects can be easily linked to, and made part of the expressive elements of a performance. The MC-808 enhances previous V-LINK functionality, and now supports the EDIROL motion dive.tokyo console edition. Of course, it still allows you to switch images in sync with the music and control a wide range of effects, simply by hooking up a V-LINK-compatible device.

MC-808_r_e.book 4

Contents
Main features...3 Contents...4 USING THE UNIT SAFELY...10 IMPORTANT NOTES....12 Panel descriptions...14
Top panel..... 14 Rear panel..... 16

Getting ready....17

Making connections.... 17 Turning on/off the power.... 18 Inserting/removing the CompactFlash card... 18
An overview of the MC-808...20
The MC-808s four modes.... 20 The basic structure of the MC-808.... 20 About the sound generator section.... 20 The structure of the sounds.... 21 About the sequencer section.... 22 About the controller section.... 22 About the motorized faders.... 23 Saving your data..... 23
Basic operation of the MC-808..24
Adjusting the display contrast (LCD Contrast)... 24 Modifying a value.... 24 Quickly changing a value... 24 Canceling the previous action (Undo/Redo).... 25 Restoring the factory settings (Factory Reset)... 25

[TRANSPOSE] [HOLD]

[OCT -] [OCT +]

[ENTER] [EXIT]

Keyboard pads [TAP] Use these as a keyboard to play sounds or start phrases. Set the tempo by hitting this button at the desired timing (p. 44).

MC-808_r_e.book 16

Rear panel

fig.0-02

POWER switch Press to turn the power on/off (p. 18).
MIDI connectors (IN, OUT) These connectors connect the MC-808 with other MIDI devices, enabling the sending and receiving of MIDI messages. IN: This connector receives messages from another MIDI device. OUT: This connector transmits messages to another MIDI device.
DC IN Connect the included power cable here (p. 17). The unit should be connected to a power source only of the type marked on the bottom of the unit.
USB connector This connector lets you use a USB cable to connect your computer to the MC-808 (p. 132).

Ground terminal

Depending on the circumstances of a particular setup, you may experience a discomforting sensation, or perceive that the surface feels gritty to the touch when you touch this device, microphones connected to it, or the metal portions of other objects, such as guitars. This is due to an infinitesimal electrical charge, which is absolutely harmless. However, if you are concerned about this, connect the ground terminal with an external ground. When the unit is grounded, a slight hum may occur, depending on the particulars of your installation. If you are unsure of the connection method, contact the nearest Roland Service Center, or an authorized Roland distributor, as listed on the Information page. Unsuitable places for connection Water pipes (may result in shock or electrocution) Gas pipes (may result in fire or explosion) Telephone-line ground or lightning rod (may be dangerous in the event of lightning)
INPUT jack (R, L/MONO/MIC) Accept input of audio signals in stereo (L/R) from external devices. If you want to use mono input, connect to the L jack. * When recording from a mic, connect it to the L jack, and set Input Select (p. 57, p. 112) to MICROPHONE. These are output jacks for audio signals. Connect them to your keyboard amp, audio system, or mixer. Use separately available audio cables to make connections. Headphones are plugged in here.
OUTPUT jacks (DIRECT R/L, MIX R, L/MONO)

PHONES jack

Security slot (
http://www.kensington.com/

Cord hook

924fig.CordHook.j
For details on the front panel card slot, refer to Inserting/ removing the CompactFlash card (p. 18). To prevent the inadvertent disruption of power to your unit (should the plug be pulled out accidentally), and to avoid applying undue stress to the AC adaptor jack, anchor the power cord using the cord hook, as shown in the illustration.

As you proceed from this point, you should save the pattern periodically as you work.

Saving a pattern (p. 83)

When youve finished making settings, press [PATTERN] to return to Pattern mode.
Selecting a patch (p. 87)

MC-808_r_e.book 30

Press the keyboard pads to make 1, 5, 9, and 13 light.
2-2 Using the MC-808s sounds to create a pattern
You can also use the Undo function (p. 25).

fig.qs-010

2-2-1 Using TR-REC to enter the rhythm
We recommend that you use TR-REC (p. 67) to enter the rhythm, since this lets you enter notes at precise timings. Enter the following notes.

fig.qs-007.e

Enter the closed hi-hat
1. Select the closed hi-hat B 4.

fig.qs-011

Closed hi-hat Open hi-hat
Press the keyboard pads to make 1, 2, 5, 6, 9, 10, 13, and 14 light.

fig.qs-012

Clap Kick

Enter the open hi-hat

1. Select the open hi-hat C5.

fig.qs-013

Prepare for recording
1. 2. Select part 10. Press [REC]. The recording menu screen will appear. Use [CURSOR [ENTER]. ] to select TR-Rec, and press
Press the keyboard pads to make 3, 7, 11, and 15 light.

fig.qs-014

fig.qs-008_50
You are in TR-REC standby mode.

fig.qs-008-1.e

Enter the clap

Recording parameter

Select the clap F 4.

fig.qs-015

You can also change the recording parameters (p. 67). 4. Press [PLAY] to begin recording. Now youre ready to record. 2. Press the keyboard pads to make 5 and 13 light.

fig.qs-016

Enter the kick drum
1. Select the kick drum C4.

fig.qs-009_e

Stop recording
Move the cursor, and use the VALUE dial or [INC] [DEC] to select a rhythm sound.
Press [STOP] to stop recording.

MC-808_r_e.book 31

Enter the bass
2-2-2 Using STEP REC to enter the bass
We recommend that you use STEP REC (p. 68) to enter the bass, since this is a good way to enter repeated notes. Youll be entering the following notes.

While holding down [SHIFT] and [TEMPO/MUTE CONTROL], press the part button [1][16] of the part that you want to play.
Muting all parts (All Part Mute) Heres how you can mute all parts at once. 1. Hold down [SHIFT] and press [OCT -].
The indicator wont light if you press the part select button of a part thats not lighted.
You can change the mute status of each part and save the mute settings with the pattern (Saving a pattern (p. 83)).
Playing all parts (All Part On) Heres how you can defeat muting for all parts at once, restoring them to play mode. 1. Hold down [SHIFT] and press [OCT +].
Swapping the muted and playing parts (Mute Reverse) Heres how you can swap (invert) the statuses of the playing and muted parts. 1. Hold down [SHIFT] and press [PART ASSIGN].
Reverting to the mute status stored in the pattern (Default Mute) Heres how you can instantly restore the part mute settings to the state that is stored in each pattern. 1. Hold down [SHIFT] and press [PART] (SELECT/MUTE).

MC-808_r_e.book 46

Using the motorized faders to edit the pattern settings
You can use the MC-808s eight motorized faders to adjust settings such as volume and pan for each part in real time. Of course you can also record fader movements into the pattern (p. 65).
Adjusting the volume of each part (Part Level)

fig.03-021

Adjusting the panning of each part (Part Pan)
You can adjust the panning (left/right position) of the sound that is sent in stereo from the OUTPUT jacks (MIX L/R, DIRECT L/R). For example you might pan the drums and bass to the center, the piano to the right, and a synth pad to the left.

fig.03-022

Press [PART LEVEL] so its indicator is lighted. The faders will automatically move to the current values of the newly selected parameter. Press [PART ASSIGN] to select the parts that you want to edit using the faders. Indicator unlit: Parts 18 Indicator lit: Parts 916 2. Move the motorized faders to adjust the volume of each part. Raising a fader will increase the volume, and lowering a fader will decrease the volume. Range: 0127 3. When the value is at 100, the volume will be as specified by the patch itself. * * 1. Press [PART PAN] so its indicator is lighted. The faders will automatically move to the current values of the newly selected parameter. Press [PART ASSIGN] to select the parts that you want to edit using the faders. Indicator unlit: Parts 18 Indicator lit: Parts 916

A arpeggio style you create will be lost when you turn off the power. If you want to keep your settings, save them as follows. 1. 2. Confirm that the current Style is the one you want to save. Press [WRITE]. A screen will appear where you can select the user arpeggio style into which you will write the settings you created.

fig.03-053

Use the VALUE dial or [INC] [DEC] to select the arpeggio style that you want to save. Range: ARP User: 001128 Press [ENTER]. Youll be asked to confirm your choice. To write the data, press [ENTER]. To cancel, press [EXIT].

About Arpeggio styles

An arpeggio style is a series of data for basic arpeggio patterns and chord styles recorded in the form of a grid consisting of a maximum of 32 steps x 16 pitches.

fig.03-054

End Step Note (Note Number) Velo (Velocity) *

(C-)127 (G9) 1127

Note 16
Alternatively, you can hold down [SHIFT] and press a keyboard pad to enter a note at the corresponding note number. You can also use the following buttons. Button [FWD] [BWD] [HOLD] Description If End Step is 17 or higher, these buttons switch the display. Hold down [HOLD] and press a pad to enter a tie. Extend the length of the most recently entered note by the length of the current setting. Pads will blink to indicate steps for which youve entered a tie. Audition the arpeggio style that youre inputting.
Note 06 Note 05 Note 04 Note 03 Note 02 Note 8

11. 32

Each grid contains one of the following kinds of data. On: Tie: Rest: Note On (with Velocity data) Tie (hold of the previous note) Rest (no sound played)

[PLAY]

The keys that are pressed along with the sequence in which they are pressed is referenced to the lowest-pitched key during input.

MC-808_r_e.book 56

Playing a chord by pressing a single pad (Chord Memory)
You can play a specified chord form simply by pressing a single pad. You can use factory-set chord forms, or freely create your own.

Using chord memory

fig.03-060

Inputting a chord form

1. Hold down [SHIFT] and press [CHORD MEMORY]. The chord memory setting screen will appear.

fig.03-056

Press [REC]. The chord form input screen will appear. Use the keyboard pads to input the chord you want to sound. Input the notes that you want to sound when keyboard pad [2] (C4) is pressed. The pads will light to indicate the notes that will sound. If you press a pad once again, it will go dark and will not sound.

fig.03-073

Use [CURSOR ] to select a parameter, and turn the VALUE dial or use [INC] [DEC] to set the value. Parameter (MFX1, 2) Type (Multi-effects Type) Range 0047 Description The MFX type used by multieffects 1 (or 2) * For details on each effect, refer to Multi-Effects Types (p. 29) in Sound & Parameter List. Depth of reverb applied to the sound processed through multi-effects 1 (or 2) Set this to 0 if you dont want to apply reverb. Output destination of the sound processed through multi-effects 1 DRY: MIX OUTPUT jacks MFX2: Multi-effects 2 (multi-effects 1 and 2 will be connected in series)
The parameters controlled by the above four faders will differ depending on the multi-effect type. Refer to Multi-Effects Types (p. 29) in Sound & Parameter List.
(MFX1, 2) Reverb Send Lev (Multi-effects Reverb Send Level) Output Assign (MFX1 only) (Multi-effects Output Assign)

DRY, MFX2

MC-808_r_e.book 64

Reverb

Reverb is an effect that creates the reverberation that occurs when sounds are played in a hall. You can choose from four types of reverberation as appropriate for your situation.

Mastering effect

This is a stereo compressor (limiter) that is applied to the final output of the MC-808. It processes the high, mid, and low-range frequency bands independently, compressing the sounds that exceed a specified volume level, and preventing the sound from distorting.
Selecting the reverb type

fig.03-074

Selecting the mastering setting

fig.03-075

Hold down [SHIFT] and press [REVERB]. A screen will appear in which you can select the reverb type.
Hold down [SHIFT] and press [MASTERING]. A screen will appear in which you can select the mastering settings.

fig.03-077

Turn the VALUE dial or use [INC] [DEC] to select the desired reverb type. 2. Range 00: OFF 01: Reverb 02: SRV Room 03: SRV Hall 04: SRV Plate Description Reverb not used Basic reverb A more detailed simulation of room reverberation A more detailed simulation of hall reverberation A simulation of a plate echo (a reverb device using a metal plate) Turn the VALUE dial or use [INC] [DEC] to select the mastering settings. Range Techno Hip Hop Break Beats User Description Recall settings suitable for the corresponding style. Recalls the user settings that you saved. You can use the dedicated editor thats included to modify the User settings (p. 137). After modifying them, press [WRITE] to save them. You can save only one set of User settings.

Modifying the note length (DURATION)
This operation modifies the duration (the length that the note is held) of the notes recorded in the pattern. You can use DURATION to give the overall performance a staccato feel or tenuto feel. Parameter Source From Range Setup, 1998, End Description first measure of the region to modify the duration * If you set this to SETUP, the setup parameters (p. 43) will be included. last measure of the region to modify the duration * If you set this to SETUP, only the setup parameters will be selected, and no measures will be included. Amount by which the duration is to be changed Range of notes whose duration is to be changed (p. 70)

Value Note Min Note Max

-24 +(C-)127 (G9)

-960 +(C-)127 (G9)

Modifying the velocity of notes (VELOCITY)
This operation modifies the velocity (strength) of the notes recorded in the pattern. Parameter Source From Range Setup, 1998, End Description first measure of the region to modify the velocity * If you set this to SETUP, the setup parameters (p. 43) will be included. last measure of the region to modify the velocity * If you set this to SETUP, only the setup parameters will be selected, and no measures will be included. Amount by which the velocity is to be changed Range of notes whose velocity is to be changed (p. 70)
Value Note Min Note Max *

-99 +(C-)127 (G9)

If this operation would result in a velocity greater than 127 (or less than 1), the resulting velocity data will be limited to 127 (or 1).

MC-808_r_e.book 74

Making slight shifts in the timing (SHIFT CLOCK)
This operation shifts the timing of the performance data recorded in the pattern backward or forward in units of one tick (1/480th of a beat). Use this when you want to slightly shift the overall performance. * Data which would otherwise be moved earlier than the beginning of the music data will be placed at the beginning. In the case of data which would be moved later than the end of the music data, the necessary number of measures will be added. However if the data would otherwise be moved beyond the end of the pattern, it will be placed at the end. Range Setup, 1998, End Description first measure of the region to perform SHIFT CLOCK * If you set this to SETUP, the setup parameters (p. 43) will be included. last measure of the region to perform SHIFT CLOCK * If you set this to SETUP, only the setup parameters will be selected, and no measures will be included. Amount of tick shift Type of data whose timing is to be adjusted ALL: All music data NOTE: Note PROG: Program change CC: Control change BEND: Pitch bend PAFT: Polyphonic aftertouch CAFT: Channel aftertouch SYS-EX: System exclusive BPM: Tempo MUTE: Mute Range of notes for which the timing is to be adjusted (p. 70)

Filter Type LFO1 Waveform
Pitch Env Decay (Time3) Pitch Env Depth

0127 -63+63

LFO1 Filter Depth LFO1 Filter Depth LFO1 Amp Depth LFO1 Rate
Filter Env Attack (Time1) Filter Env Decay (Time3) Filter Env Sustain (Level3) Filter Env Release (Time4)

0127 0127

SYNTHESIZER 2
Fader [PART ASSIGN]=OFF Indication Amp Env Attack (Time1) Amp Env Release (Time4) Fine Tune Matrix Control MFX1 C1 MFX1 C2 MFX2 C1 MFX2 C2 Range -50+For details, refer to Applying effects, Multi-effects (MFX) (p. 63). [PART ASSIGN]=ON Indication Amp Level Amp Env Attack (Time1) Amp Env Decay (Time3) Amp Env Sustain (Level3) Amp Env Release (Time4) Random Modify Reverb Time (C1) Reverb Level (C2) Range 0127 0127
For details on each parameter, refer to Patch editing parameters (p. 44) in Sound & Parameter List.
The patches of the MC-808 contain many other parameters in addition to those listed here. You can use the dedicated editor thats included to edit these additional parameters. For details on how to install and use the editor, refer to Using MC-808 editor (p. 137).

MC-808_r_e.book 91

Saving a patch
Patch/rhythm set settings that you edit will be lost if you re-select the patch/rhythm set or turn off the power. If you want to keep your edits, you must use the following procedure to save the data.
All of the MC-808s patches are rewritable. In other words, when you save a patch, the patch data that previously occupied the save destination will be overwritten and lost. However, you can restore the factory-set internal data by carrying out a Factory Reset (p. 25). 1. In Patch/Sample mode, select the patch that you want to save. 6. Turn the VALUE dial or use [INC] [DEC] to select the writedestination patch. The number and name in the display will change. Range: UsrA001H128 CrdA001H128 This will appear when you edit the patch. 2. Press [WRITE]. The patch name entry screen will appear. 7. Press [ENTER]. Youll be asked to confirm your choice. To write the data, press [ENTER]. To cancel, press [EXIT].

fig.04-024.e

fig.04-020
The samples used by the patch will also be saved automatically. 3. Assign a name to the patch. Button [CURSOR ] Description Moves the cursor (the location at which to enter/edit a character). Switches letters between uppercase and lowercase. Inserts a space at the cursor location.

D Beam Sens Fader Motor Sw (Fader Motor Switch)

0127 OFF, ON

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Settings related to sequencer operation (SEQUENCER)
Here you can make settings related to sequencer operation and MIDI. Parameter Sync Mode Range MASTER, REMOTE, SLAVE Description Specifies how the internal sequencer will operate and how MIDI clock messages will be transmitted and received. MASTER: The internal sequencer will synchronize to the internal tempo clock. Any MIDI clock messages received from an external device will be ignored. REMOTE: Operation will be essentially the same as MASTER. However, Start/Stop messages from the external MIDI device will control playback/stop for the internal sequencer. SLAVE: The internal sequencer will synchronize to MIDI clock messages received from an external device. If no MIDI clock messages are being received, pattern/song playback will not occur even if you press the [PLAY] button. Determines whether synchronization-related MIDI messages will be transmitted. OFF: Messages will not be transmitted. ON: The following messages will be transmitted from the MIDI OUT connector. Timing Clock: F8 Stop: FC Start: FA Song Position Pointer: F2 Continue: FB Specifies how the arpeggio start timing will be synchronized to the pattern. OFF: The start timing will not synchronize. MODE1: When a pattern plays, the arpeggio will start in synchronization. When the pattern stops, the arpeggio will also stop. MODE2: In addition to the operation of MODE1, the arpeggio will start at the beginning of the next measure of the currently-playing pattern. * If the pattern is stopped, the arpeggio will start immediately, regardless of which of the above settings is selected. When using RPS during pattern playback, patterns and phrases may not play back in precise alignment, depending on the timing at which you press the keyboard pads. On the MC-808 you can specify the playback timing of the phrase, so it will play back in precise synchronization with the pattern. REAL: The phrase will play back immediately, at the timing at which you pressed the keyboard pads. 16TH, 8TH, QUARTER: The pattern will be divided into selected note units, and when you press the keyboard pads, the phrase will begin playing at the beginning of the next note unit. MEASURE: The pattern will be divided into one-measure units, and when you press the keyboard pads, the phrase will begin playing at the beginning of the next measure. * If this setting is anything other than REAL, youll be able to play phrases in perfect synchronization with the pattern by striking a pad slightly ahead of the playback timing you actually want. * If the pattern is stopped, the arpeggio will start immediately, regardless of which of the above settings is selected. Specifies how the tempo will change when patterns are played back consecutively. OFF: When the pattern changes, the tempo will change at the same time. ON: The tempo of the first-played pattern will continue even when the pattern changes. Specifies how songs will be played back. OFF: The currently selected song will be played back only once. LOOP1: The currently selected song will be played back repeatedly. LOOP2: All songs will be played back repeatedly in sequence. Specifies whether or not the pattern setup parameters will be loaded when you move to the next step of the song. MODE1: The setup parameters, mute, and realtime modify settings will be loaded each time you move to the next step. MODE2: The setup parameters, mute, and realtime modify settings will be maintained during playback only if the next step plays a pattern that is the same as the currently playing pattern.

Trigger Level Gap Time

07 500, 1000, 1500, 2000 ms
Ext Src Sel (External Source Select)
LINE-L-R, LINE-L, MIC OFF, ON

Trimming Switch

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Settings related to the input source (INPUT SETTING)
Parameter Ext Output Asgn (External Output Assign) Range DRY, MFX1, MFX2, COMP 0127 Description Output destination of the external input sound that is mixed in DRY: Output to MIX OUTPUT jacks without passing through effects MFX1 (2): Output through multi-effects 1 (or 2) COMP: Output through the compressor Volume level of the external input sound (left channel) Volume level of the external input sound (right channel) Depth of reverb applied to the external input sound Set this to 0 if you dont want to apply reverb.
Ext Level L (External Level L) Ext Level R (External Level R) Ext Rev Send Lev (External Reverb Send Level)
Settings related to USB mode (USB)
Parameter USB Mode Range Storage, MIDI Description Selects the mode in which the USB connector will be used. STORAGE: Storage mode. Select this if you want to transfer files. MIDI: MIDI mode. Select this if you want to exchange MIDI messages with a sequencer or other program. * You must switch the USB Mode before you connect the MC-808 to your computer via the USB cable. If you change this setting while the MC-808 is connected, the computer may fail to recognize it correctly. * For details on connections to your computer in each USB Mode, refer to Connections (p. 133). When USB Mode is set to MIDI, this switch specifies whether MIDI messages received at the MIDI connector will be retransmitted from the MIDI OUT connector (ON) or not (OFF).
MIDI OUT MIDI IN USB OUT USB IN MIDI OUT MIDI IN USB OUT USB IN
USB-MIDI Thru (USB-MIDI Thru Switch)

Sound Generator Section

MC-808 USB-MIDI Thru Sw=OFF USB-MIDI Thru Sw=ON

USB Storage

Refer to p. 132.

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Settings related to V-LINK (V-LINK)
Parameter Note Tx Ch A Note Tx Ch B Note Tx Ch C D Beam Range 116 Description Specifies the MIDI channels on which V-LINK devices will be controlled. (*)
Assigns a V-LINK function to the D Beam controller. OFF The operation selected by [D BEAM] will occur regardless of whether V-LINK is on or off. ColorEQ Fore CC1 (Modulation) These are used by EDIROL motion dive.tokyo console edition. ColorEQ Back CC71 (Resonance) Scratch SW CC3 Speed Knob CC8 (Balance) Total Fader CC10 (Panpot) Cross Fader CC11 (Expression) BPM Sync SW CC64 (Hold) Clip Loop SW CC65 (Portamento) Assign Knob CC72 (Release) Fade Time SW CC73 (Attack) Visual Knob CC74 (Cutoff) AB SW CC81 (General-6) Tap SW CC83 (General-8) Total Select CC85 FX Select CC86 Play Pos CC91 (Reverb) LoopStartPos CC92 (Tremolo) Loop End Pos CC93 (Chorus) LayerModeSel CC94 (Celeste) Dissolve Time CC73 (Attack) These are used by devices such as the EDIROL DV-7PR. Color Cb CC1 (Modulation) Color Cr Brightness VFX1 VFX2 VFX3 VFX4 Output Fade CC71 (Resonance) CC74 (Cutoff) CC72 (Release) CC91 (Reverb) CC92 (Tremolo) CC93 (Chorus) CC10 (Panpot)

The USB mode (storage mode/MIDI mode) must be switched before you connect the MC-808 with your computer.
This may not work correctly with some types of computer.
Switching the Storage mode and the MIDI mode

Selecting Storage mode

The USB mode (storage mode/MIDI mode) must be switched before you connect the MC-808 with your computer. 1. 2. Press [SYSTEM] to enter System mode. Hold down [SHIFT] and press keyboard pad [8]. The USB screen will appear. Turn the VALUE dial or use [INC] [DEC] to select STORAGE.

Selecting MIDI mode

The USB mode (storage mode/MIDI mode) must be switched before you connect the MC-808 with your computer. If youve selected USB MIDI mode, nothing can be received from the MIDI IN connector. 1. 2. Press [SYSTEM] to enter System mode. Hold down [SHIFT] and press keyboard pad [8]. The USB screen will appear. Turn the VALUE dial or use [INC] [DEC] to select MIDI.

fig.10-001

fig.10-002
USB Storage mode is selected. 4. If you want the MC-808 to start up in USB Storage mode the next time it is powered up, press [WRITE] to save the System settings. If you do not wish to save changes, press [EXIT] to return to the previous screen. 5. Turn the VALUE dial or use [INC] [DEC] to make settings for USB-MIDI Thru switch. This switch specifies whether MIDI messages received at the USB connector or the MIDI IN connector will be retransmitted from the USB connector or the MIDI OUT connector (ON) or not (OFF). If you want the MC-808 to start up in MIDI mode the next time it is powered up, press [WRITE] to save the System settings. If you do not wish to save changes, press [EXIT] to return to the previous screen. MIDI mode is selected. 4. Press to select USB-MIDI Thru.

fig.10-003

For details on operations in USB Storage mode, refer to Transferring files to or from your computer (Storage mode) (p. 133).
In order to use the MC-808 as a USB MIDI device from your computer, you must first install the USB MIDI driver. The USB MIDI driver is on the included MC-808 Editor CD CD-ROM. In order to use USB in MIDI mode, you must install the driver from the included CD-ROM into your computer.
Driver installation and settings (p. 136)

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Transferring files to or from your computer (Storage mode)
If youve connected the MC-808 to your computer via a USB cable, WAV/AIFF files created on the MC-808 can be used by software on your computer, or conversely WAV/AIFF files created by software on your computer can be used in the MC-808. In this way, USB Storage mode lets you transfer patch and wave files between the MC-808 and a connected computer.

Windows Me/2000/XP users

1. In My Computer, right-click the removable hard disk icon and execute Remove.
(User) ROLAND SEQ P00P28 PCL PTN RPS SNG SMPL SND TMP AUDIO_IMPORT

Macintosh users

1. Drag the MC-808 drive icon into the trash.
Canceling USB communication
If you want to power off the MC-808 when it is connected to your computer in Storage mode, you must first cancel USB communication on your computer as described here.
(Card) ROLAND SEQ PTN SMPL SND TMP AUDIO_IMPORT
1. Use the device eject button shown in the taskbar at the lower right of your computer screen to cancel the connection with the MC-808.
1. Make sure that the MC-808 drive icon is not on your desktop.
Do not use your USB-connected computer to delete or rewrite any files placed in the ROLAND folder. Audio files (WAV/AIFF format) are the only type of file that can be exchanged between the MC-808 and the computer. Dont place any other type of file in the user area or on the CompactFlash card. The MC-808 can only handle filenames consisting of singlebyte alphanumeric characters. You cannot use a period. at the beginning of a file name. Certain other characters (\ / : , ; * ? < > |) can also not be used in a file name. The file name extension for WAV files must be WAV, and for AIFF files it must be AIF. The file cannot be recognized if the extension is anything else.

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Exchanging MIDI messages with your computer (MIDI mode)
Driver installation and settings
In order to use the MC-808 as a USB MIDI device from your computer, you must first install the USB MIDI driver. The USB MIDI driver is on the included MC-808 Editor CD CD-ROM. In order to use USB in MIDI mode, you must install the driver from the included CD-ROM into your computer. The driver program and the installation procedure to use will differ depending on your system, so please be sure to read the following Readme files provided on the CD-ROM. Windows XP/2000 /Win2kXP/Readme_E.htm Mac OS X /MC-808 Driver OSX/Readme_E.htm * / indicates a directory level. USB Driver