Roland CR-78 (Digital product)

Iconic Rhythm. Reinvented for Today.

Experience the rebirth of Roland’s first programmable rhythm machine, the CR-78, reimagined for the modern age. Originally launched in the late 1970s, the CR-78 revolutionized music production with its innovative programmability and distinctive analog sound, setting a new standard for artists seeking creative control.

This legendary machine powered era-defining tracks and became a staple in early synth-pop and new wave, delivering warm, textured tones that still resonate today. The CR-78 returns with enhanced speed, precision, and creative range, making it perfect for both retro authenticity and futuristic grooves.

Features

• ACB Authenticity: Component-level modeling of the original CR-78 sound and response.
• Deep Editing: Per-instrument tuning, level, decay, pan, and more for precise voicing.
• Advanced Sequencing: Variable sub-steps, accents, shuffle, last step, and more.
• Cross-Genre Ready: From retro textures to futuristic beats, the CR-78 adapts to any style.
• High-Definition Interface: Resizable, high-DPI UI with woodgrain or black trim skins.
• Preset Library: Curated kits and patterns spanning classic and contemporary styles.
• DAW Integration: AU, VST3, and AAX support with tempo sync, automation, and drag-and-drop pattern arrangement.

The Rhythm That Changed Everything

Launched in 1978, the Roland CR-78 was a pivotal moment in music technology, introducing user programmability to the traditional preset-based drum machine. Its rich bass drum, crisp snare, silky cymbals, and unique percussion sounds became the heartbeat of genre-defining hits, inspiring artists across pop, rock, and electronic music. More than just a drum machine, it was a cultural milestone that continues to influence music today.

Sound That Feels Alive

The essence of the CR-78 lies in its analog circuitry, where tones bloom, accents breathe, and rhythms flow. Our Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology captures these nuances at the component level, ensuring unmatched realism. From lush tambourines to deep kick drums, every sound responds like the original, with subtle variations and organic movement that made the CR-78 a studio favorite. ACB not only preserves this character but also expands tone editing capabilities, allowing you to shape sounds beyond the hardware's limits without sacrificing authenticity.

Timeless Design. Modern Workflow.

The CR-78 was as visually stunning as it was innovative, and this modern plug-in pays homage to its iconic look. Every detail of the original layout is preserved, featuring optional woodgrain or black trim, now enhanced with high-definition graphics and a fully resizable interface suitable for any display. Dedicated views for tone shaping and pattern sequencing keep advanced features clear and accessible, blending vintage charm with contemporary convenience.

Start with the Originals. Create What’s Next.

Ignite your creativity with curated kits and pattern presets that capture the iconic CR-78 sound while exploring forward-looking styles. All original patterns are included for authentic grooves, ready to use or transform. Use them as launchpads to tweak parameters and reshape rhythms to fit your production, whether you seek vintage character or something entirely new.

From Vintage Tone to Bold New Beats

Go beyond vintage presets with a comprehensive suite of sound-shaping tools. Each instrument channel features dedicated controls for tuning, decay, pan, and volume, along with advanced parameters like Attack for the kick and Snappy for the snare, allowing you to fine-tune transients and character. Gain staging, flexible output routing, and a global balance control make it easy to craft mix-ready grooves or venture into bold new sonic territories.

Precision Rhythm

Shape grooves with an advanced step sequencer that far surpasses the CR-78’s original programmability. Each instrument lane offers independent shuffle and last-step control for engaging rhythmic variation. Detailed step modes allow you to add sub-steps (×2, ×3, ×4), adjustable flams, and alternate or weak hits for expressive nuance. With A/B pattern variations, mutes, solos, and intuitive grid editing, you have the precision to craft rhythms that feel alive and perfectly tailored to your track.

Built to Fit Your Workflow

Seamlessly integrate the CR-78 into any DAW with AU, VST3, and AAX support. Host tempo sync keeps patterns locked to your project, while parameter automation facilitates movement and feel. Kits and patterns save with projects for instant recall, and drag-and-drop MIDI or rendered audio allows for quick arranging directly on the timeline.