Roland MC-101

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Roland MC-101

Roland

MC-101

4.7 Expert Rating

Product Info

Article Number: 473345
Brand: Roland
Model: MC-101
Category: Groove Boxes
Price: $548.90

* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.

The MC-101 is a seriously cool pocket groovebox. It’s perfect for producers, beatmakers, and electronic musicians who want a self-contained, portable studio. The ZEN-Core sounds are surprisingly powerful for its size, and the workflow is genuinely addictive for quick ideas and loop-based tracks.

Product Description

  • Roland MC-101
  • Portable Groovebox
  • ZEN-Core sound generator with up to 128 voices
  • 4 Parts
  • 4-Track sequencer with up to 128 steps
  • 16 Clips per sequencer track
  • Up to 4 looper tracks with time stretch and pitch shift
  • 3000 Preset sounds and 80 drum kits
  • Import of user samples and loops via SD card
  • Available memory space for user samples: 12 Minutes in mono
  • 6 minutes in stereo (@ 44.1 kHz)
  • Supported formats for user samples: WAV File (mono/stereo)
  • 16/24-bit
  • 32-96 kHz
  • Effects: EQ and multi-effects per part (90 different effects types)
  • Master effects: Compressor
  • Reverb
  • Delay
  • Chorus
  • Comfortable programming via the 16 backlit pads
  • 4 Backlit faders and 4 rotary knobs
  • Mix up tracks
  • patterns and loops in your DAW via USB connection
  • Integrated USB audio/MIDI interface
  • Battery operation for up to 5 hours (4 x AA batteries)
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 224 x 132 x 61 mm
  • Weight: 716g
  • Includes 4 x AA batteries and SD card
  • Suitable optional bag: Art.#493542# or suitable case: Art.#489627# (not included)

*Connectors:*

, Stereo output: 6.3 mm Jack, Stereo headphone output: 3.5 mm Jack, MIDI In/Out, USB B type port

PROS
  • • ZEN-Core engine delivers impressive sonic depth and versatility.
  • • Compact size and battery power enable mobile music creation.
  • • Intuitive pad-based workflow accelerates beat and loop creation.
  • • Integrated audio/MIDI interface simplifies DAW integration and recording.
CONS
  • • Limited sampling time restricts complex sample-based arrangements.
  • • 4-track sequencer can feel restrictive for larger projects.
  • • Small screen can be challenging for detailed editing on the go.

Product Video

Key Features

Tracks 4 Parts, 4-Track Sequencer, 4 Looper Tracks
Sounds 3000 Presets, 80 Drum Kits, ZEN-Core Engine
Sequencer 128 Steps, 16 Clips per Track, Pattern Chain
Effects 90 Effect Types per Part, Master Effects (Compressor, EQ, Reverb, Delay, Chorus)
Sampling 12 Minutes Mono, 6 Minutes Stereo @ 44.1 kHz, WAV Support (16/24-bit, 32-96 kHz)
Connections USB Audio/MIDI, SD Card Slot, DC Input, Headphone Output, Line Outputs
Weight Approximately 2.5 lbs

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Frequently Asked Questions

ZEN-Core offers a much wider palette of sounds and more sophisticated synthesis capabilities than previous Roland engines, providing a more modern and flexible sonic foundation.
It’s primarily a sequencer, though the sampling capabilities allow for user loops and one-shots; the limited sampling time makes it best suited for short, impactful samples.
It's accessible for beginners with its intuitive interface, but experienced users will appreciate the depth and flexibility of the ZEN-Core engine and sequencing options.

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