The highly portable Roland MC-101 is smaller brethren of the latest flagship groove box, the MC-707, but in a pint-sized package that operates on batteries. The unit features four tracks of recording, sequencing, synthesis, sample-playback, and effects, plus a curated palette of sounds, loops, and phrases. Import loops and sequence MIDI with deep control over timing, while tweaking faders and knobs for the ultimate “in-the-moment” experience.

The ZEN-Core engine fuses virtual analog with modern PCM to create a collection of built in sounds, beats, and phrases all expertly crafted by renowned artists and sound designers. You’ll find that classic sounds from the highly coveted TR-808, TR-909, TB-303, JUNO-106, and SH-101. With this modern digital and hybrid sound sculpting, you can create future classics, today.

The 4-track sequencer is optimized for fluid production of today’s electronic-focused music styles and ever-evolving subgenres. Use the 16 RGB pads to play and sequence drums, melodic basslines, or polyphonic chord progressions. Freely combine loops and one-shots with melodic phrases including your own imported audio recordings and MIDI sequences. Record automation and motion data to create dramatic moving effects

All four tracks have dedicated track EQ plus independent multi-effects processors with several variations of classic FX types. You will find choruses, delays, and reverbs, as well as overdrive, distortion, and amp simulation. Run the entire mix through master effects like filters, bit-crushers, and a master bus compressor that glues it all together with punch and clarity. The MC-101 can be powered via USB or from four AA batteries, which provide runtimes of up to 4.5 hours with NiMH batteries or about 3 hours with alkaline batteries. A set of four AA batteries are included.