The Roland MC-505 is a versatile music production device that was introduced in 1998. It combines the functionalities of a MIDI controller, a music sequencer, a drum machine, and a desktop synthesizer. With its wide range of synthesizer functions, including arpeggiator, oscillators, voltage-controlled filter, and various envelopes, the MC-505 offers musicians a comprehensive tool for creating unique sounds. It is worth noting that this device is the successor to the Roland MC-303 and is a more compact version of the Roland JX-305 Groovesynth, albeit without the full set of 61 keys. Additionally, it serves as a precursor to other Roland models such as the Roland D2, Roland MC-307, Roland MC-909, and the Roland MC-808.

Key Features

The Roland MC-505 boasts several noteworthy features, including:

1. 64-voice polyphonic digital subtractive synthesis engine: This engine, derived from the Roland JV-1080, offers a wide range of sound possibilities. It includes 251 different oscillator, acoustic, and drum sample waveforms.

2. Extensive sound library: The MC-505 comes with 512 built-in preset sounds, 256 user sounds, and 26 rhythm sets. These include iconic drum machine sounds like the Roland CR-78, TR-808, TR-606, TR-909, TR-707, and R-8.

3. Powerful MIDI sequencer: With its 8-track MIDI sequencer and Mute Ctrl Track, the MC-505 allows users to create complex musical arrangements. Each pattern can have a recording length of up to 32 measures.

4. Abundant sequencer patterns and songs: The device offers 714 preset sequencer patterns, 200 user patterns, and 50 user songs. This vast library provides users with a wide variety of musical ideas to explore.

5. Versatile effects: The MC-505 features three multi-effect units: Reverb, Delay, and 24 different EFX. These effects can be applied to individual tracks or the entire mix, enhancing the overall sound.

6. Innovative control options: The device includes an Infrared D-Beam controller, allowing for hands-free sound modulation. This feature adds a unique element of expressiveness to performances.

7. Expanded memory capacity: The MC-505 is equipped with a 5-volt Smartmedia card slot, enabling users to double their patch and pattern memory. This ensures that musicians have ample space to store their creations.

Drawbacks

Despite its many strengths, the Roland MC-505 does have a few limitations. Firstly, it lacks a sampler, which may be a drawback for musicians who rely heavily on sampling. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the device’s LCD screen. The size of the screen makes it difficult to read certain function settings, and over time, the screen may develop pixel issues, rendering it unreadable. This problem, known as the “display bug,” is caused by the heat on the LCD screen circuit board. However, Roland has addressed this issue by updating the LCD screen component.