Roland Announces CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer
Roland announces the CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer, the latest member of the expanding family of software-based instruments on Roland Cloud. Driven by the company’s acclaimed Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, the CR-78 authentically recreates the sound of the original vintage hardware, enhanced with modern sequencing features, individual sound mixing and tuning, DAW tempo sync, drag-and-drop audio/MIDI support, and more.
Well before the famous TR-808 and TR-909 revolutionised hip-hop and dance, the CR-78 CompuRhythm had a massive influence on the music world. Debuting in 1978 as Roland’s first programmable rhythm machine, the CR-78 was quickly adopted by musicians and producers of the era seeking new rhythm textures. Its fat analog sound and distinctive pulse are integral to countless hits across many genres, from new wave and early electronic music to mainstream pop and rock.
The CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer features a familiar interface based on the original tabletop unit. Skins are available to choose between the wood panel and black vinyl covering variations of the CR-78 during its production run. Like the original hardware, the software version is very intuitive to use, with direct-access controls for rhythm patterns, instrument sounds, shuffle, fills, volume balance, fade-in/fade-out, and more.
The original CR-78 offered simple programmability with slots for four pattern variations. The CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer supercharges this workflow, providing a detailed Pattern view where users can enter, delete, and fine-tune steps, control instrument levels, and adjust individual parameters such as tuning and decay. The Kit screen offers expanded mixing control, supplementing instrument parameters with details like panning, mute/solo, and main/sub output routing.
The CR-78 is available with a Roland Cloud Ultimate membership or a Lifetime Key purchase. Through February 28, 2026, a Lifetime Key can be purchased for an introductory price of $49.00 (regular price $199.00).
To learn more about the CR-78 and Roland Cloud, visit Roland.com.
*USD price at time of publishing.
About Roland Corporation
For more than 50 years, Roland’s innovative electronic musical instruments and multimedia products have fueled inspiration in artists and creators around the world. Embraced by hobbyists and professionals alike, the company’s trendsetting gear spans multiple categories, from pianos, synthesizers, drums and percussion, and guitar products to DJ controllers, audio/video solutions, gaming mixers, livestreaming products, and more. As technology evolves, Roland and its expanding family of brands, including Roland Cloud, BOSS, V-MODA, Drum Workshop (DW), PDP, Latin Percussion (LP), and Slingerland, continue to lead the way for music makers and creators, providing modern solutions and seamless creative workflows between hardware products, computers, and mobile devices. For more information, visit Roland.com or see your local Roland dealer. Follow Roland on Facebook, X (Twitter) (@RolandGlobal), and Instagram (@RolandGlobal).
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Source: musicinstrumentnews.co.uk
