Behringer RD-78

• Clone of the Roland CR-78 (1978)
• Analog drum computer
• 15 instruments / voices
• 34 iconic preset patterns
• 11 Preset variations
• 32 User Patterns
• 12 songs
• Random mode
• Programmable pattern variation
• Pattern fade in/out switchable
• Pattern chain
• Mute function
• Mono main out
• 10 individual outputs (3.5mm mono jack)
• Headphone output
• Analogue clock inputs and outputs
• 2 footswitch connections
• MIDI In & Out/Thru
• USB MIDI

Modernized sequencer

The sequencer of the over 45 year old original was quite cumbersome to program blind, which is why the CR-78 was often used as a preset drum machine. In the reissue, Behringer combines the operating concept of the Roland TR-606, respectively its clone, the RD-6, with the variation function of the original. The beats are programmed in running light in the usual TR manner. The variation offers a total of 11 patterns, which are divided into 7 fill-ins, break, rhythm and 2 rolling. The variation is activated with Measure; this can be done manually at any time or automatically after 2, 4, 8, 12 or 16 bars. The fade function acts as an aid from past times and makes it easier to realise intros and endings: with Short (8 steps/half bar) and Long (48 steps/three bars) you can choose how quickly the selected pattern reaches the full (set) level. Of course, fading can be bypassed in the Off position. The RD-78 comes from the factory with the 34 iconic patterns of the original and offers space for 32 User patterns. The improved sequencer also includes a song mode that manages 12 songs in the device. The pattern randomiser dices up completely new rhythms as required. It is also possible to concatenate adjacent patterns (pattern chain). There is also a mute function that allows you to conveniently mute the individual instruments without having to constantly adjust the volumes.

Connections

The connections of the RD-78 meet modern standards. In addition to the mix output, there are 10 individual outputs with a small mono jack, which is perfect for processing with external equipment such as a Delay or Reverb effect. MIDI inputs and outputs are available for integration into a DAW-less setup. The RD-78 can be conveniently connected to a computer via USB for software updates, for example. Analogue clock inputs and outputs for synchronisation and two footswitch connections for starting and stopping the drum computer and triggering the pattern variation round off the features.