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Analog Specs
Roland200216-stepStudio / Desktop$$Mid-Range($250–800)

Roland MC-909 Groovebox

Producers wanting the MC-series groovebox formula with genuine sampling and more modern specs than the 90s originals.

Find on ReverbUsed-gear listings, graded conditionCheck prices on eBayBroader inventory, live auctions

Strengths

  • Adds genuine sampling capability on top of the MC-series' synth/sequencer formula, closing a real gap in the earlier 303/505/307 line
  • A large color screen and touch-sensitive pads made programming considerably faster than the earlier MC-series' small displays
  • 128-voice polyphony and 999 pattern slots were both huge leaps over the late-90s MC-series units

Trade-offs

  • Considerably larger and heavier than the compact MC-303/307, losing some of the earlier units' grab-and-go portability
  • Its 2000s-era PCM sounds and UI are sometimes seen as less charmingly 'vintage' than the more collectible late-90s MC-series

Full Specifications

Full technical specifications for the Roland MC-909 Groovebox
SpecificationValue
BrandRoland
ModelMC-909 Groovebox
Era2002
Typical Price TierMid-Range ($250–800)
Synth EnginePCM sample-based + virtual analog modeling
Voice Count128
Steps Per Pattern16
Pattern Memory999
Built-in SpeakerNo
MIDI EquippedYes
Sync TypeMIDI + USB

A relative used-market guide, not a live quote — real prices vary by condition, region, and timing. Check the Reverb/eBay links on any item for current listings.

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This deckRoland MC-909 Groovebox
Match58
Flexibility75
Portability45
Ease of Use62
Tonal Neutrality48

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