Behringer has announced the RD-78, an authentic clone/replica of the Roland CR-78 analog drum machine from 1978.
Update: ready for pre-order for 179€ from Thomann.
Last year at Banaheim, Behringer unveiled the first prototype of its clone/replica of the Roland CR-78, an analog drum machine used by many musicians in the past (Phil Collins…)
One year later, Behringer released the RD-78, which is now shipping from the factory. This means that dealers like Thomann, Sweetwater, etc., can now make orders.
Official Features
- authentic reproduction of the original Roland CR-78 circuitry from the 70s
- 14 original drum sounds with mix parameters and global accent capability + an added clap sound
- 34 iconic rhythm patterns with fill-in, rolling, and break variations
- 10 independent analog outputs for external processing or recording your rhythms as multi-track audio
- Easy-to-use 16-step drum sequencer with real-time switching between 32 separate patterns
- Patterns can be chained into full songs with up to 250 bars
- 16 authentic-style step buttons with LED indicators for easy pattern creation
- 18 controls and 29 switches to give you direct and real-time access to all important parameters
- MIDI and USB implementation for synchronization and connection to external devices
- Sync options include USB, MIDI, Clock, and Internal for maximum versatility
It’s a nice extension of its classic drum machine replicas. What is particularly good is that you have individual outputs with which you can process the sounds individually.
Behringer is available soon for $199/179€.
Available for pre-order at my partner
Article From January 28, 2024
It’s NAMM time in Anaheim (LA) with many new products to marvel at. Behringer doesn’t have a booth at NAMM, but is taking part at the Banaheim again like in previous years. This year they already showed the JT-16 (Roland Jupiter-8 clone) and the UB-X (Oberheim OB-X clone).
On Banaheim day 3, the “In The Air Tonight” drum machine is making a comeback.
Behringer RD-78
Yes, Behringer’s take on the iconic Roland CR-78 is coming soon. The RD-78 is an authentic clone/replica of the Roland CR-78 featuring the exact same analog circuitry, including the original coils and LC filters.
Like the original unit, it will ship with 14 tones: kick, snare, rim, cow bell, hi-hats, cymbals, congas, bongos, tambourine, and guiros. With 10 knobs you can control the proportion of the individual instruments. Some knobs are double-assigned.
Then, you can set the accent, balance, tempo, and work with variations. Next to this, you can select your track (up to 12 tracks), and choose the four alternative sounds using switches.
There is also another variation function, allowing you to vary your tracks using different sections (break, rhythm…). Behringer also replicated the fade in/fade out function of the original CR-78 with long and short options. Plus, you get a volume control.
Further, it also features a complete sequencer with pattern memory. I assume that the original patterns are included: rock, disco, latin…
The RD-78 is not yet finished but soon. Behringer says its Facebook post:
RD-78 is now up and running!
We are in the last stages of pre-production and are working closely with our beta testers to ensure the unit sounds spot on.And for those who love the technical details, we have incorporated the exact same circuitry into the design, including the original coils and LC filters. The team is filled with excitement about this legendary drum machine.
First Impression
More information here: Behringer
