RolandChannel midi tracks with would be awesome, so the fader can stay open for the next clip. Would love to use the MC-707 as the brain for my live setup. Two midi ports out seem so promising for proper midi sequencing ;-) and if we would be able to feed the audio of the external device back through the audio inputs into that same track, to be able to switch that to an audio loop, that would be a game changer... a combined looper/midi track basically. I’m in Hamamatsu next week if you’d like to discuss 😂
Also the ability to load scenes or clip groups whilst the 707 is still playing - that would allow Roland to absolutely lead the field in performance mode - can’t wait
Let us do everything without hitting the stop button. The MC909 was an amazing instrument, but you had to press stop before you could go into record. It was the groove box that couldn’t groove. The more we can do without hitting stop the better.
@RolandChannel Please add better sample editing, such as slicing. It would be great to be able to chop up a sample and save its slices as a drum program. Thanks!
Loopop, I used to be a diehard Roland customer in the 80s and then after the 1987 D50, I felt Roland lost their way in terms of creative innovation and I shifted to other companies that were doing more interesting things to me. But you have managed to showcase the lasted round of Roland devices in a way that has made me again interested in the Roland family of products...something no one has done since the late 80s. Thank you for a very detailed, articulate and meticulously demonstrated video. Kudos to your work.
It's a shame that Roland didn't implement a sound editing mode that turns all of the track control knobs, sliders and buttons on the entire machine into synth controls. Like if track 2 was a tone track and you could select it and put it in synth edit mode and now all of those hands on controls all have a dedicated synth function. They could've turned it into a completely hands on synth, and forego most of that menu diving. They could've made it so when you're in that mode, when you touch one of those controls it immediately brings up the screen to show you what you're editing and the values of those edits. Those sliders would've made great envelope controls, just like on the JP8000. The top four knobs from track one through four could've been the partial editing knobs...you get the idea.
@@stephenalcaide1778 I agree that it’s great having audio faders. I used to play shows with an MC-505 and it was the same concept except I had a bunch of dedicated synth controls as well. If you followed what I was saying, the MC-707 could function in either mode. Sure you could use an external controller but doesn’t that kind of defeat the purpose of the all-in-one concept? What I was suggesting is that you could toggle back and forth freely between the standard mode and synth control/sound editing mode. There’s no reason why the machine can’t do this and it would likely not even take much code to accomplish. A lot of us are not preset users and would like to squeeze the good stuff out of that synth engine without a bunch of menu diving. It’s a shame when you’ve got all those controls there going to waste in this instance
Roland should get loopop in and design a machine. I’m sure with all the reviewing he’s done, he would come up with a monster concept and a ultra “go to” instrument. 🤘✊
How the hell did I not know about this thing?? I know what I'm getting for my birthday this year! Thanks for this video, Loopop! You are a god amongst men!
I never thought I'd see another MC. I had the MC-808 a little over 10 years ago when I was first experimenting with music. I was able to record complete songs even though they sounded like 90's video game music.
This thing is pretty cool. It shows how far we've come since the RedGreen Show. Harold could not have even dreamed of this thing attached to that control panel that hung from his neck with a guitar strap.
Excellent video. I’m looking to get me a MC 707 because of the firmware update (1.20) the increased sampling capacity pushed me over the edge! A update video featuring the new updates would be great!!!
I just acquired an old MC-505 and although it's kinda frustrating in many ways, it has such an incredible arpeggiator. That was the main thing I wanted to know about MC-707, and I'm quite disappointed there isn't one. Seems like an amazing machine in all other respects. It's like they did one thing right with the MC-505 and then didn't include it in future gear. I wish I could get just the arpeggiator in a small module! The MC-505 is abit bulky to keep around just for that, heh.
Well it already sends midi notes info out, but you need to lower the volume of your track. How awesome would it be if you could bring the audio from the input to that very track...
@@zsigmondkara This is the same with the MC-808, the way I got around it was creating a custom tone with the partials disabled... so it essentially makes no sound and uses no voices. That way you don't have to lower the track volume.
about to buy a deluge but damnit now I'm GASing for this! the deluge seems so much more full-featured but damn do i love the roland sound. synth engine seems really powerful as well.
Amazing as usual-this one took me from not wanting this at all to thinking about what I could sell to get it ASAP, and then back to well... this would be super cool but maybe I’ll hold off for now. But in any case, I feel like I have a much better understanding and appreciation for this machine and how much fun it could be to use.
Holy smokes, Roland is going insane! I'm a big fan of grooveboxes, so I won't complain. :D Loopop, you're on fire these das, so many awesome videos, it's like Christmas. Thanks for the new presentation.
@@christoroppolo8742 yeah, I always feel like I'm not just getting introduced to a device, but that his videos show me how to use it in a way that I myself can see myself using it and therefore know if it's suitable for me.
"Two... two... two..." that's good enough for me. Nice machine, it gives you some of the key advantages of an old Multitrack, Ableton loop workflow, samplers, and having both pads and sequencer buttons
loopop I’m a bit confused about the looper and how the 8 bar sequencer work. 60 seconds per loop/track? So if you use all 8 tracks for audio loops, can your first loop be the master loop and the rest will sync? So this is essentially a 8 track looping machine? And how does a 60 second loop work with just 8 bars? Also, I’ve heard you CAN’t cut samples to apply to the pads, just the start and end points. ?? Anyhow, thank you and great video. Yes.. “two” had potential. :)
Hey - so all loops sync to the clock, there is no master. I didn’t stress test this in terms of sample length - the manual says 60 seconds max per sample. Re trimming - you can set sample start end and loop points
People like to hate on this thing but after a week with mine, I feel it's a good value for the money. You get a 4 in 2 out audio interface with DSP FX (an Apollo Solo or Antelope Audio interface would be 500 USD or so alone), full zen core synth engine, 8 track recorder, sampling (yes only 6 minutes stereo still), step recorder/ drum machine. I realize you can get most of this and more with an Akai Force but, I find the sounds to be more authentic and effects to be better on the 707 (I owned a Force). This is just my opinion of course and this box won't be for everyone, especially if you are looking for an all out hardware DAW.
okay now i'm seriously considering selling my octatrack for this. I love the ableton style scene launch/clip launch it makes so much more sense to me having been using ableton since 2010 and one of the things that bothered me the most about OT and most grooveboxes is when you change a pattern all sequences have to change, i always wanted something wherre you can choose which sequence to play per track. this is the closest thing i can imagine to using ableton in hardware. (i dont know much about the akai fire however)
Man , you're a gun! I have a lot of different synths still learning some of them. I'm just lost in the new technology what comes out today! I guess just getting too old school. Thanks for your videos I won't miss any of them!
Wow looks like it has got features from Tr8s combined with the digitakt-like idea of sound editing and sample making! I thought of buying those two separately but this looks like very good alternative Btw your videos are the best, thank you so much
Mc707 “S” with 8 individual jack out would be an instant buy for me, don’t care about usb tracks😔 for the rest it presses all off my bottoms 😂 great review as usual 🙌🏻
but this already have 8 analog outs...if i'm not missing anything...but you need to do a little setup. 1-2 main outs 3-4 assignable outs 5-6 stereo send 7-8 headphones out (assigned to CUE out)
I'm an Octatrack guy too, but the only things I saw here that I envy a bit are the dedicated insert and faders. The synth engine seems to be the same one they've been updating incrementallyfor the last 25 years, you could grap a JV1080 or 2080 for a couple hundred dollars, hook it up to your OT, and get a lot of the same functionality of the synth engine in this. This might be a good partner for an Octatrack though. I was an MPC2000xl guy before I got the Octatrack and I think the older MPC workflow and the Octatrack workflow complement each other really well. This isn't much like an MPC but it seems like it could fill some of the same gaps in the OT's workflow and vice versa. It would be interesting to try stuff like patching the send from one of these to in 3/4 of the OT, out 3/4 o the OT to the returns, and then the main 707 out to OT in 1/2. Lots of possibilities. Not $1000 worth of possibilities for me personally but this thing does have potential.
Since the beginning of the AIRA series and the release of the Roland Boutique devices, I wished I could see new devices from the "MC" range ! Roland granted my wish !
I've owned my MC-707 for approx. nine months now. Being a guitar player first I wanted a desktop synth as the soft synths in Logic + my MIDI controller just lack a certain something. I was planning to sell my TR-8S since the MC-707 can do drums but I really like the dedicated drum machine that the TR-8S is. Overall, the MC-707 is more than I'll ever need. I like to dabble in the synth world and I can get lost playing with the available included sounds. It's a great piece of equipment and does what I need.
Had one for a couple of months and love it. Here's what I'd add with a firmware update. 1) Song Mode 2) 8 MIDI only tracks 3) Arpeggiator 4) An easy setting for sending wet-only effects from the Mix Out in USB audio mode 5) A way of saving the looper sample to the card or transferring it to a tone track or drum pad. 6) More 303 PCM waves! 7) Slide mode for the sequencer (you can use portmento in mono mode but slide would be better). Question is, do Roland listen to Loopop?
I'm interested but feel like this instrument still just isn't there yet. The MC-505 and MC-909 gave the user much more hands on control of the synthesizer. It's nice to see Roland bring back the Groovebox! I'm very happy about that but IMHO, the MC-909 is still the pinnacle of the Roland Groovebox machines.
As an owner and user of an MC-505 and an MC-909 I can confiirm this! If you dive in the "old" engine of the MC-909 you will be amazed what you can do with it. Check this out (it´s about 3 videos, this is the first part): ruclips.net/video/OKFbGIbugpQ/видео.html
@@Analoque444 I released 7 EP's in England from 2003 to 2005 and all of them were done with the MC-909 at the core of their creation. I sold it out of frustration with Roland at the time because it was maybe one or two more updates away from legendary status and Roland cut all further development on it. I now use an Elektron Digitakt and Digitone.
Well, in a way they never really left. 1st gen Electribes came out '99-00, 2nd gen '03-04, 3rd gen '10 and 4th gen in '15. Also pretty much all the Volcas are "grooveboxes" as well. When it comes to analog Electribe: sure it could be something cool, but I think it's highly unlikely there ever will be one - mostly as their Volca line-up sells like hotcakes, but also because the Electribes have never been analog. They've always been about digital synthesis (DSP and VAM) and samples. I have a lot more faith in the possibility that we might some day see a Monologue (analog) with a more sophisticated sequencer.
@jarkokoo yeah when I wrote this I actually completely forgot about that recent batch of electribes, really disappointing imo. But yeah the hope since the Monotribe has been that someday there would be a more comprehensive analog groovebox from korg
Once I make a beat , how do I export the tracks so I can import them into pro tools ? Do I just write the pattern and insert the sd card into my computer and pull them that way ?
hopefully this sells well enough to make Yamaha want to reboot the RS7000. This 707 has a lot of great features, but definitely not a fully featured midi sequencer, which is nice to have in a groovebox.
Loopop you do some of the best reviews ever!,I'm thinking why would I buy this? for £900! I've got the AKAI FORCE and I'm very pleased with it!,especially with song mode coming (which looks amazing by the way) If I was gonna buy something it would be the 1010 black box or the ISLA lnstruments SP2400 which is gonna be around the same price! and will kick the 707's plastic ass and by the way just like the Force version of the 707 has no song mode!,I'm not hating on Roland but honestly by comparison I was far more excited when the lovely Sp808 came out!.😎
Agreed! I have the MC 505 and used to have the MC 909 and there were things that both lacked... I bugged and bugged a Roland rep I knew to get them to do an updated version of the Groovebox in the AIRA line and he finally said, "We're working on it!".... And it's great! Well done Roland!
Can you ALL that operations, like erasing a whole track, create a new track, like a loop track in which you can sing on, or undo the last operation, or load a clip....ALL WITHOUT STOP THE MUSIC??? So, what I mean.....can you do ALL this operations LIVE without hitting the STOP button......And if NOT ALL which ones you CAN´T?? TY so much!!
Regarding the MIDI and internal voices, I got around this issue on the MC-808 by creating a patch with no tone generator enabled. This way no internal voices are used when you want to use a track for just external MIDI sequencing. :)
You can live loop, but can you just run something on one track through the input without recording? And you can apply all the fx you want on a live loop recorded? Thanks
@loopop so you can have the audio input assigned to a track as well? Because in the video you mention you would need to keep the fader down when sending midi out
@@benrogmans the two aren't related - keeping the fader down when sequencing external gear is only if you don't want to hear the track that's doing the sequencing. Audio input - you just hear it if you turn up external audio
I really love the MC-707. But unfortunately, a few points extremely diminish the live suitability. The worst thing is that you have to stop playback to change a project. But that would not be so bad if you could choose different sounds for the clips. I really don't understand how to play live for 1-2 hours without changing the sounds or projects (songs). What I also don't understand why there is no arpeggio, even the MC-303 had one that was very cool and complex. And it's also a shame that there is no LFO section on the surface. Had the MC-303 too. I think that's a real shame because I started making music with the MC-303 and I would have loved to return to a Roland groovebox. Unfortunately, I am currently not sure if I can live with the restrictions. It would also be very helpful if you could export and import midi files. How do you do longer live sets without stopping the music to load a new project?
"Knob Assign" is for configuring the three knobs aboveeach track fader, you can set one to tweak a patch LFO1 or LFO2 the pricepoint that Roland was aiming for forced them to make some sacrifices makes sense as they don't want get into Akai Force or MPC Live territory, though they got too close anyway I've got my good ol' JD-Xi and Juno-DS61 that I can use to play filler loops between MC-707 projects. Something you can do is get a second MC-707, or get an MC-101 and create 4-part performances on the 707 to be imported into the 101 as filler loops to play between 707 projects. but yeah, underpowered ARM CPU for what the groovebox is missing
Roland have got a few important things right on the MC-707. Drum pad mute, essential when performing or recording. Step probability on Tones or Drum Parts (called Step Mute by Roland). You can load samples onto tracks, into drum pads, into tones (up to 4 partials), and into the looper. The MC-707 is missing a Song Mode, the ability to sample (other than into the looper), and the ability to save a looper sample (with FX) to a wav on the SDCard. Those things can be fixed with a firmware update....
This seems to me like a streamlined octatrack with synth engines- not quite as infinitely tweakable as the OT but seems to do all of the basic selling points and more. Digitakt does far less, but is so damn compact, and Elektron sequencing really is *that* good. I love my DT to death but if I were in your shoes I'd probably snag this one.
Deluge is worth a close look too .. the new functionality they keep adding every year makes it never grow stale or boring. I’d love to get Digitone or desktop hydra to complement it for a sound design source tho, deluge Synth is a little on the light side; mostly consider it as a placeholder for other sounds.
8 tracks are little bit less for me… But, if each clip has own tone with pattern (seamless sound change), this unit will be over other Groovebox. It is more worth than 8 tracks! I want to load the clip in another project while playing. Can I do that?
I found that so called Tone Remain function is in it. ruclips.net/video/jk-1uWZjzy0/видео.html And, I got information that 707 can load other project clips while playing. Of course, 101 can do that, too.
Great review, thanks! There's a few machines/VST's that can do what this one can do, but what stands out for me is the button and knob layout. Having that ready access can make a big difference in your workflow. It draws a good balance between having a good amount of features for quickly creating rhythms, without turning into something else more complicated/convoluted.
Good video. Is there a length limit for user sample used as an osc? Can these kind of User sample Tone patches be saved as global presets across projects? Is there a way to play loops polyphonically? Like if I sampled a loop of an ‘oooh’ or percussive pattern, could I play it on the pads at different pitches simultaneously?
@@marcuunk8564 I did indeed. The 707 is far superior, better sounding etc but it's more technical / different from the esx, so you need to try one and see if you like it (or if you like ableton then it will gel with you). I also ended up with a deluge, which I would say is much better for getting into your flow, I reach for that when I have something running around in my head - like a 4/4 time peppa pig rif in a minor key with a 3/4 time hihat (don't ask why) - the deluge is just more natural feeling
Sounds are typically Roland VA and PCM. Drums also have x0x kits. Check this video out for Rolands's current VA sounding stuff ruclips.net/video/mfmTsNvpN44/видео.html
Is it? Or is it more like the Juno DS? The patch edit stuff looks much like my DS with 4 partials and such, though I guess Roland has used that basic design in most all their digital sound engines since the D50.
@@CamberGreber According to the manual there are updates and new stuff that you can't do with the sns engine I think the new zen engine is a unified pcm +V.A. engine From the manual -osc sync ( both on pcm sync waves and V.a.) -PUlse width on NON square waveforms (v.a. only ) -Crossmod
Think same....but may be you can solve this in another way. If you record on the 3 first track and then resample all in another track....may be...the 8....you will layer all sounds in one track. The thing is... you can record all what sounds to a track...so....is a way to solve it. BUT...can you do all this LIVE?? Question not answer...
WOOOOOOOOW!!! Let me get this straight? You monsters are going to expand this? AS it is now you better pack 3 meals , ask the mrs. to hold your calls. I'm the noobie. I own the TR-8 VT-4 AND the MX-1. I'm looking purchase the JD-Xi, but this bad bouy has all that and more. Perhaps i should connect my Samson graphite 49 to this unit and for get about any other keyboard controller? Good on you Roland. The Mx-1 alone brings all my old school together. mini disc digital multi tracker and the PC... ( which i hate btw)... but man. You guys are "off the chain" when it comes to being here for us old guys! btw, I just saw this for sale at just under$650.00. MPC best be ready with something..., because this tops all those others. Thank you Roland keep up the good work!!! Fantastic Video. thank you and God bless and keep you.
version 1.0.....thats the impression i had too, and sounds like a roland move. at that price i can wait for 2.0. im also guessing loading and moving samples is a hassle at this point. sd card? nobody showed this yet. no slicing samples from what i hear.
Thanks for the in-depth breakdown as only you know how! We look forward to expanding the MC-707 in the near future.
RolandChannel midi tracks with would be awesome, so the fader can stay open for the next clip. Would love to use the MC-707 as the brain for my live setup. Two midi ports out seem so promising for proper midi sequencing ;-) and if we would be able to feed the audio of the external device back through the audio inputs into that same track, to be able to switch that to an audio loop, that would be a game changer... a combined looper/midi track basically. I’m in Hamamatsu next week if you’d like to discuss 😂
Also the ability to load scenes or clip groups whilst the 707 is still playing - that would allow Roland to absolutely lead the field in performance mode - can’t wait
Let us do everything without hitting the stop button. The MC909 was an amazing instrument, but you had to press stop before you could go into record. It was the groove box that couldn’t groove. The more we can do without hitting stop the better.
@RolandChannel Please add better sample editing, such as slicing. It would be great to be able to chop up a sample and save its slices as a drum program. Thanks!
step automation of any parameter [hold step + change parameter]
Loopop, I used to be a diehard Roland customer in the 80s and then after the 1987 D50, I felt Roland lost their way in terms of creative innovation and I shifted to other companies that were doing more interesting things to me. But you have managed to showcase the lasted round of Roland devices in a way that has made me again interested in the Roland family of products...something no one has done since the late 80s. Thank you for a very detailed, articulate and meticulously demonstrated video. Kudos to your work.
I got this machine by watching this video and from other channels. I was happy to find out that Roland has updated the unit with even more good stuff
It's a shame that Roland didn't implement a sound editing mode that turns all of the track control knobs, sliders and buttons on the entire machine into synth controls. Like if track 2 was a tone track and you could select it and put it in synth edit mode and now all of those hands on controls all have a dedicated synth function. They could've turned it into a completely hands on synth, and forego most of that menu diving. They could've made it so when you're in that mode, when you touch one of those controls it immediately brings up the screen to show you what you're editing and the values of those edits. Those sliders would've made great envelope controls, just like on the JP8000. The top four knobs from track one through four could've been the partial editing knobs...you get the idea.
Brilliant idea!
So tru! Love the idea! Roland if you’re watching 👆🏼👆🏼
This has gotta be possible with a firmware update
@@stephenalcaide1778 I agree that it’s great having audio faders. I used to play shows with an MC-505 and it was the same concept except I had a bunch of dedicated synth controls as well. If you followed what I was saying, the MC-707 could function in either mode. Sure you could use an external controller but doesn’t that kind of defeat the purpose of the all-in-one concept? What I was suggesting is that you could toggle back and forth freely between the standard mode and synth control/sound editing mode. There’s no reason why the machine can’t do this and it would likely not even take much code to accomplish. A lot of us are not preset users and would like to squeeze the good stuff out of that synth engine without a bunch of menu diving. It’s a shame when you’ve got all those controls there going to waste in this instance
Yep and it's a really great Idea 👍
Was this ever made possible through an update from Roland?
Loopop should manufacture and sell those screens that just hover in midair behind all the equipment he tests.
Haha, I actually had the same thought when I saw this video, it is so perfect!
They really are perfect - everybody should make product videos this way.
That is not real man! That is video edited!
@@Pauluz_The_Web_Gnome it should be real product, that is what we all want
Screen is tiny!!!
I know this is a little old now, but just wanted to say this is an absolutely awesome review/introduction. Great work!
Roland should get loopop in and design a machine. I’m sure with all the reviewing he’s done, he would come up with a monster concept and a ultra “go to” instrument. 🤘✊
Woaaahh yeah now we are talkin
I am LOVING Roland these days. They were lagging behind but not anymore,
I LOVE LOOPOP! By far the best reviews and tutorials I have seen.
How the hell did I not know about this thing?? I know what I'm getting for my birthday this year! Thanks for this video, Loopop! You are a god amongst men!
I never thought I'd see another MC. I had the MC-808 a little over 10 years ago when I was first experimenting with music. I was able to record complete songs even though they sounded like 90's video game music.
This thing is pretty cool. It shows how far we've come since the RedGreen Show. Harold could not have even dreamed of this thing attached to that control panel that hung from his neck with a guitar strap.
the mc 303 was the first groove box of my life in 1997 , and now the MC 707 coming for the best . thanks to roland
Excellent video. I’m looking to get me a MC 707 because of the firmware update (1.20) the increased sampling capacity pushed me over the edge!
A update video featuring the new updates would be great!!!
best youtube review channel on youtube hands down. i really do not buy any stuff before check them out here. much love & support from germany!
I just acquired an old MC-505 and although it's kinda frustrating in many ways, it has such an incredible arpeggiator. That was the main thing I wanted to know about MC-707, and I'm quite disappointed there isn't one. Seems like an amazing machine in all other respects. It's like they did one thing right with the MC-505 and then didn't include it in future gear. I wish I could get just the arpeggiator in a small module! The MC-505 is abit bulky to keep around just for that, heh.
They added it in the update
Thanks for showing the dispaly. Helped so much in understanding how awful or not the menu diving aspect is.
As soon as they add a Midi track to the existing 3 Tracktypes (Drum/Tone/Looper) I'm sold. Really hope they will add this!
That seems to be a no brainer, given the midi outputs. I'm very surprised, that they didn't implement it...
Well it already sends midi notes info out, but you need to lower the volume of your track. How awesome would it be if you could bring the audio from the input to that very track...
@@zsigmondkara This is the same with the MC-808, the way I got around it was creating a custom tone with the partials disabled... so it essentially makes no sound and uses no voices. That way you don't have to lower the track volume.
about to buy a deluge but damnit now I'm GASing for this! the deluge seems so much more full-featured but damn do i love the roland sound. synth engine seems really powerful as well.
Amazing as usual-this one took me from not wanting this at all to thinking about what I could sell to get it ASAP, and then back to well... this would be super cool but maybe I’ll hold off for now. But in any case, I feel like I have a much better understanding and appreciation for this machine and how much fun it could be to use.
Holy smokes, Roland is going insane! I'm a big fan of grooveboxes, so I won't complain. :D
Loopop, you're on fire these das, so many awesome videos, it's like Christmas.
Thanks for the new presentation.
He is the guy who goes out of his way to explain and suggest with the credibility to back up his input. Accept no substitute. Peace Christo 👽🎶🛸☮️
@@christoroppolo8742 yeah, I always feel like I'm not just getting introduced to a device, but that his videos show me how to use it in a way that I myself can see myself using it and therefore know if it's suitable for me.
Great review. Very in-depth. Would be good to see a part 2 now there has been a firmware update.
Product demos are so much better when the music isn't boring and uninspired like the lengthier one I previously watched. Thank you.
"Two... two... two..." that's good enough for me. Nice machine, it gives you some of the key advantages of an old Multitrack, Ableton loop workflow, samplers, and having both pads and sequencer buttons
I'm actually starting to regret I didn't save that project
loopop I’m a bit confused about the looper and how the 8 bar sequencer work. 60 seconds per loop/track? So if you use all 8 tracks for audio loops, can your first loop be the master loop and the rest will sync? So this is essentially a 8 track looping machine?
And how does a 60 second loop work with just 8 bars? Also, I’ve heard you CAN’t cut samples to apply to the pads, just the start and end points. ?? Anyhow, thank you and great video. Yes.. “two” had potential. :)
Hey - so all loops sync to the clock, there is no master. I didn’t stress test this in terms of sample length - the manual says 60 seconds max per sample. Re trimming - you can set sample start end and loop points
People like to hate on this thing but after a week with mine, I feel it's a good value for the money. You get a 4 in 2 out audio interface with DSP FX (an Apollo Solo or Antelope Audio interface would be 500 USD or so alone), full zen core synth engine, 8 track recorder, sampling (yes only 6 minutes stereo still), step recorder/ drum machine. I realize you can get most of this and more with an Akai Force but, I find the sounds to be more authentic and effects to be better on the 707 (I owned a Force). This is just my opinion of course and this box won't be for everyone, especially if you are looking for an all out hardware DAW.
okay now i'm seriously considering selling my octatrack for this. I love the ableton style scene launch/clip launch it makes so much more sense to me having been using ableton since 2010 and one of the things that bothered me the most about OT and most grooveboxes is when you change a pattern all sequences have to change, i always wanted something wherre you can choose which sequence to play per track. this is the closest thing i can imagine to using ableton in hardware. (i dont know much about the akai fire however)
I keep coming back to this. Such a useful guide.
Your videos always make me want to purchase what you showcase...in that regard I simultaneously thank you and hate you lol. Love the vids!
Thanks I guess :) I just tell it like it is...
This is the best thing Roland has made in quite some time. And as usual, EXCELLENT review, man
Man , you're a gun! I have a lot of different synths still learning some of them. I'm just lost in the new technology what comes out today! I guess just getting too old school. Thanks for your videos I won't miss any of them!
This is the most extensive coverage of the feature set for this so far. Answered a lot of questions for me. Thanks!
Wow looks like it has got features from Tr8s combined with the digitakt-like idea of sound editing and sample making! I thought of buying those two separately but this looks like very good alternative
Btw your videos are the best, thank you so much
Mc707 “S” with 8 individual jack out would be an instant buy for me, don’t care about usb tracks😔 for the rest it presses all off my bottoms 😂 great review as usual 🙌🏻
but this already have 8 analog outs...if i'm not missing anything...but you need to do a little setup.
1-2 main outs
3-4 assignable outs
5-6 stereo send
7-8 headphones out (assigned to CUE out)
Not gonna lie.. as an Octatrack guy I'm looking kinda enviously at those polyphonic drum and synth engines.
I'm an Octatrack guy too, but the only things I saw here that I envy a bit are the dedicated insert and faders. The synth engine seems to be the same one they've been updating incrementallyfor the last 25 years, you could grap a JV1080 or 2080 for a couple hundred dollars, hook it up to your OT, and get a lot of the same functionality of the synth engine in this.
This might be a good partner for an Octatrack though. I was an MPC2000xl guy before I got the Octatrack and I think the older MPC workflow and the Octatrack workflow complement each other really well. This isn't much like an MPC but it seems like it could fill some of the same gaps in the OT's workflow and vice versa. It would be interesting to try stuff like patching the send from one of these to in 3/4 of the OT, out 3/4 o the OT to the returns, and then the main 707 out to OT in 1/2. Lots of possibilities.
Not $1000 worth of possibilities for me personally but this thing does have potential.
and usb multitrack, huh?
ugh, that hidden settings menu in the clip view was driving me nuts. I knew there was some settings I had found before, THANK YOU.
Gonna curl up with some ice cream and imagine I need this. TY Loopop.
LOL
hihihi
that’s funny. :)
Rotfl Couldn’t of said better
Since the beginning of the AIRA series and the release of the Roland Boutique devices, I wished I could see new devices from the "MC" range !
Roland granted my wish !
Can you make a 2022 update of this review?
A 2024 update!
I appreciate the many hours you spend making this video for us to enjoy. Keep up the excellent work, great tutorial
Dope review. | Your sub count as of late = wow. Well deserved.
I've owned my MC-707 for approx. nine months now. Being a guitar player first I wanted a desktop synth as the soft synths in Logic + my MIDI controller just lack a certain something. I was planning to sell my TR-8S since the MC-707 can do drums but I really like the dedicated drum machine that the TR-8S is. Overall, the MC-707 is more than I'll ever need. I like to dabble in the synth world and I can get lost playing with the available included sounds. It's a great piece of equipment and does what I need.
Funny how hardware manufacturers clearly don’t involve people like yourself during the design phase.
One of the most "down to earth" entries I have ever read! You certainly got that one right, Martin!!!! (y)
Exactly!
Probably to not make it too specific, since everyone works differently
Had one for a couple of months and love it. Here's what I'd add with a firmware update. 1) Song Mode 2) 8 MIDI only tracks 3) Arpeggiator 4) An easy setting for sending wet-only effects from the Mix Out in USB audio mode 5) A way of saving the looper sample to the card or transferring it to a tone track or drum pad. 6) More 303 PCM waves! 7) Slide mode for the sequencer (you can use portmento in mono mode but slide would be better).
Question is, do Roland listen to Loopop?
I'm interested but feel like this instrument still just isn't there yet. The MC-505 and MC-909 gave the user much more hands on control of the synthesizer. It's nice to see Roland bring back the Groovebox! I'm very happy about that but IMHO, the MC-909 is still the pinnacle of the Roland Groovebox machines.
As an owner and user of an MC-505 and an MC-909 I can confiirm this! If you dive in the "old" engine of the MC-909 you will be amazed what you can do with it. Check this out (it´s about 3 videos, this is the first part): ruclips.net/video/OKFbGIbugpQ/видео.html
@@Analoque444 I released 7 EP's in England from 2003 to 2005 and all of them were done with the MC-909 at the core of their creation. I sold it out of frustration with Roland at the time because it was maybe one or two more updates away from legendary status and Roland cut all further development on it.
I now use an Elektron Digitakt and Digitone.
ThatJerseyBloke I suspect a new 808 and 909 coming in future... 16 tracks etc, closer to the old 909.
I'd take a MC909 over this as well. I am now actually thinking of finally grabbing one after seeing this thing. Too many menus Roland. ughh
Drew b original 909 is also menu heavy and missing VA engine entirely. Some of the pcm sounds dated or Lofi nowadays.
The quality of this product is only matched by the interest of this new video. Thank you so much !
hopefully korg will get back into the groovebox game too - would love to see an analog electribe
after the last electribe im done with korg
I loved my Grey electrode but it felt so limited, I think they could make something amazing that would rival this and my MPC Live. 👌
They will be planning
Well, in a way they never really left. 1st gen Electribes came out '99-00, 2nd gen '03-04, 3rd gen '10 and 4th gen in '15. Also pretty much all the Volcas are "grooveboxes" as well.
When it comes to analog Electribe: sure it could be something cool, but I think it's highly unlikely there ever will be one - mostly as their Volca line-up sells like hotcakes, but also because the Electribes have never been analog. They've always been about digital synthesis (DSP and VAM) and samples. I have a lot more faith in the possibility that we might some day see a Monologue (analog) with a more sophisticated sequencer.
@jarkokoo yeah when I wrote this I actually completely forgot about that recent batch of electribes, really disappointing imo. But yeah the hope since the Monotribe has been that someday there would be a more comprehensive analog groovebox from korg
Best review of the device so far, thanks. I think this might go great with my modular as a looper tool.
Once I make a beat , how do I export the tracks so I can import them into pro tools ? Do I just write the pattern and insert the sd card into my computer and pull them that way ?
*Read the MANUAL ;)*
i am an Akai MPC X user, but if i were to switch i'd use the 101 - Great comparison Great video
Great review - as always, I really like this timestamps on the screen. Can you compare MC 707 to Octatrack or at least share some thoughts.
Perhaps at a later date, it would take a while...
I just started messing around with mine
It's definitely worth every penny
hopefully this sells well enough to make Yamaha want to reboot the RS7000. This 707 has a lot of great features, but definitely not a fully featured midi sequencer, which is nice to have in a groovebox.
Jon B Yeah, I hope so, too ! The RS7000 successor is urgently needed ... I really hope that Yamaha is taking this request seriously !
That is a great device! I love Roland and still going strong! Great presentation video!
Loopop you do some of the best reviews ever!,I'm thinking why would I buy this? for £900! I've got the AKAI FORCE and I'm very pleased with it!,especially with song mode coming (which looks amazing by the way) If I was gonna buy something it would be the 1010 black box or the ISLA lnstruments SP2400 which is gonna be around the same price! and will kick the 707's plastic ass and by the way just like the Force version of the 707 has no song mode!,I'm not hating on Roland but honestly by comparison I was far more excited when the lovely Sp808 came out!.😎
OMG the live looping is all I ever wanted ....
Agreed! I have the MC 505 and used to have the MC 909 and there were things that both lacked... I bugged and bugged a Roland rep I knew to get them to do an updated version of the Groovebox in the AIRA line and he finally said, "We're working on it!".... And it's great! Well done Roland!
(Another) fantastic review, how do you manage to produce all these videos with a constent quality and clarity ? hard worker, you are mate :)
yeah this week was a bit crazy for sure but things were too interesting to say no
@@loopop ahaha, yeah ! all these new stuff at Roland drive me nuts :) esp. the Jupiter and Xm, these new grooveboxes too !
I can’t imagine how you had time to stay on top of this lately! I hope you get the weekend off
Can you ALL that operations, like erasing a whole track, create a new track, like a loop track in which you can sing on, or undo the last operation, or load a clip....ALL WITHOUT STOP THE MUSIC???
So, what I mean.....can you do ALL this operations LIVE without hitting the STOP button......And if NOT ALL which ones you CAN´T?? TY so much!!
Never was a fan of remakes but this one is something special 🤤😍
It would be cool with a Circuit in a set up
Lots of updates for this piece of gear now, its a mixer, a slicer, and it can sequence external stuff, and more.
I'm waiting for the "S" 2.0 Model.
This machine is taking Roland to the next level
It’s like there coming after the elektron trinity in one box :0 kinda....
yeah indeed, thought the same
Regarding the MIDI and internal voices, I got around this issue on the MC-808 by creating a patch with no tone generator enabled. This way no internal voices are used when you want to use a track for just external MIDI sequencing. :)
And... I just put my order in for one.
You can live loop, but can you just run something on one track through the input without recording?
And you can apply all the fx you want on a live loop recorded?
Thanks
Yes and yes
@loopop so you can have the audio input assigned to a track as well? Because in the video you mention you would need to keep the fader down when sending midi out
@@benrogmans the two aren't related - keeping the fader down when sequencing external gear is only if you don't want to hear the track that's doing the sequencing. Audio input - you just hear it if you turn up external audio
Excellent review, pretty much answered all my questions & it's arranged in a logical way to get to what people really want to know.
I really love the MC-707.
But unfortunately, a few points extremely diminish the live suitability.
The worst thing is that you have to stop playback to change a project. But that would not be so bad if you could choose different sounds for the clips. I really don't understand how to play live for 1-2 hours without changing the sounds or projects (songs).
What I also don't understand why there is no arpeggio, even the MC-303 had one that was very cool and complex.
And it's also a shame that there is no LFO section on the surface. Had the MC-303 too.
I think that's a real shame because I started making music with the MC-303 and I would have loved to return to a Roland groovebox. Unfortunately, I am currently not sure if I can live with the restrictions.
It would also be very helpful if you could export and import midi files.
How do you do longer live sets without stopping the music to load a new project?
moon oh man I’m going to wait this out maybe they will update but they have already left the tr8s for dead
Arrpeggio ➡ruclips.net/video/CcVAYZ578vE/видео.html
@@liljons6753 where is in this video an arpeggio?
@@läuft_bei_dir he made it...gotta make it...or use external sync......and sample
"Knob Assign" is for configuring the three knobs aboveeach track fader, you can set one to tweak a patch LFO1 or LFO2
the pricepoint that Roland was aiming for forced them to make some sacrifices
makes sense as they don't want get into Akai Force or MPC Live territory, though they got too close anyway
I've got my good ol' JD-Xi and Juno-DS61 that I can use to play filler loops between MC-707 projects.
Something you can do is get a second MC-707, or get an MC-101 and create 4-part performances on the 707 to be imported into the 101 as filler loops to play between 707 projects.
but yeah, underpowered ARM CPU for what the groovebox is missing
Roland have got a few important things right on the MC-707. Drum pad mute, essential when performing or recording. Step probability on Tones or Drum Parts (called Step Mute by Roland). You can load samples onto tracks, into drum pads, into tones (up to 4 partials), and into the looper. The MC-707 is missing a Song Mode, the ability to sample (other than into the looper), and the ability to save a looper sample (with FX) to a wav on the SDCard. Those things can be fixed with a firmware update....
You’ve been busy these past few days haven’t you?
Seems to be pushed from Roland this time ;)
@@Analoque444 how come?
By far the best reviews on RUclips!
What about the smaller 101?
Could you make a vid about it to.
I'm genuinely torn between this and the Digitakt - price isn't an issue, but I'm a former owner of the MC909.
This seems to me like a streamlined octatrack with synth engines- not quite as infinitely tweakable as the OT but seems to do all of the basic selling points and more. Digitakt does far less, but is so damn compact, and Elektron sequencing really is *that* good. I love my DT to death but if I were in your shoes I'd probably snag this one.
Deluge is worth a close look too .. the new functionality they keep adding every year makes it never grow stale or boring. I’d love to get Digitone or desktop hydra to complement it for a sound design source tho, deluge Synth is a little on the light side; mostly consider it as a placeholder for other sounds.
Thanks for this superb video. I have just ordered mine. Eek! Now that horrid time waiting 3 or 4 days for it to arrive.
15:30 the first second reminded me "all that she wants" from Ace of Base! lol
This fella can replace my whole desk...even the mixing desk.
If I had to (and I often better) choose a single live set tool, this would easily be it.🔥
8 tracks are little bit less for me… But, if each clip has own tone with pattern (seamless sound change), this unit will be over other Groovebox. It is more worth than 8 tracks!
I want to load the clip in another project while playing. Can I do that?
Please can someone answer ?!!
I want to load clips too whilst unit is playing - we all need that - and perhaps more scenes rather than just 8
I found that so called Tone Remain function is in it. ruclips.net/video/jk-1uWZjzy0/видео.html
And, I got information that 707 can load other project clips while playing. Of course, 101 can do that, too.
Great review, thanks! There's a few machines/VST's that can do what this one can do, but what stands out for me is the button and knob layout. Having that ready access can make a big difference in your workflow. It draws a good balance between having a good amount of features for quickly creating rhythms, without turning into something else more complicated/convoluted.
What VSTs were you referring to, if you don’t mind me asking.
Good video. Is there a length limit for user sample used as an osc? Can these kind of User sample Tone patches be saved as global presets across projects?
Is there a way to play loops polyphonically? Like if I sampled a loop of an ‘oooh’ or percussive pattern, could I play it on the pads at different pitches simultaneously?
It's nice, but sticking with my unlimited sampling and 16 track ext midi etc of the 1010 Blackbox with 4 note sample polyphony
Another amazingly thorough tutorial. I'm thinking of moving up from the Electribe sampler and this help immensely. Thanks Loopop!
Did you get your 707? I have a electribe esx-1 and i think about buy a 707 and sell my electribe esx-1 , is that a good idea?
@@marcuunk8564 I did indeed. The 707 is far superior, better sounding etc but it's more technical / different from the esx, so you need to try one and see if you like it (or if you like ableton then it will gel with you). I also ended up with a deluge, which I would say is much better for getting into your flow, I reach for that when I have something running around in my head - like a 4/4 time peppa pig rif in a minor key with a 3/4 time hihat (don't ask why) - the deluge is just more natural feeling
@@wentbackward thanks man, keep on playing… forever
23:19 Strecth Window
yeah wtf
Thanks for the informative review! This box is even more interesting with the updates it has received since.
hi, is audio/midi over USB class compliant ? thnx
I'm not sure... it works on Windows 10 without a driver, but that may because windows downloads the driver automatically
thnx for the answer! some say yes, some say no. we’ll see. Would be cool to use it as an audio interface on ios
It's my beginning, how is this compare to Maschine MK3 or Plus. Thank guys
Would it be possible for you to do a more extensive sounds-only video?
Sounds are typically Roland VA and PCM. Drums also have x0x kits. Check this video out for Rolands's current VA sounding stuff ruclips.net/video/mfmTsNvpN44/видео.html
I love love love the old Roland groovebox’s I own a few but I’m not so sure when it comes to software I’m just not into software
Seems like the same pcm + VA engine as found in my integra
It is ...its there supernatural sound engine iirc.
Is it? Or is it more like the Juno DS? The patch edit stuff looks much like my DS with 4 partials and such, though I guess Roland has used that basic design in most all their digital sound engines since the D50.
@@CamberGreber
According to the manual there are updates and new stuff that you can't do with the sns engine
I think the new zen engine is a unified pcm +V.A. engine
From the manual
-osc sync ( both on pcm sync waves and V.a.)
-PUlse width on NON square waveforms (v.a. only )
-Crossmod
@@WARDISWARD sounds cool.
would love to see this updated with features from update 1.2, which includes sample and slicing features.
This is like a mixture of DSI Tempest, Tr8s, Digitakt and Ableton :)
Your videos are superb BTW. Great standard as always, you never disappoint.
This groovebox is amazing however the price point is still 1000€
You get all their classic drums a good synth and all the other functions, plus they have a baby one half the price. Not too bad really.
Now 660 UK.
Loopops voice/dialect is the best
Mc-101 up soon? :)
what the electribe2 could have been.
i've never felt such sustained disappointment. OPEN THE SOURCE CODE!
Need to mention that the mc707 cost like 3x more than the Electribe 2.
An excellent & most thorough ''Walk Through'', top class as usual loopop. Thanks & Regards sent
Needs overdubbing on looper. No brainer
Yup glaring omission
Think same....but may be you can solve this in another way. If you record on the 3 first track and then resample all in another track....may be...the 8....you will layer all sounds in one track.
The thing is... you can record all what sounds to a track...so....is a way to solve it. BUT...can you do all this LIVE??
Question not answer...
WOOOOOOOOW!!! Let me get this straight? You monsters are going to expand this? AS it is now you better pack 3 meals , ask the mrs. to hold your calls. I'm the noobie. I own the TR-8 VT-4 AND the MX-1. I'm looking purchase the JD-Xi, but this bad bouy has all that and more. Perhaps i should connect my Samson graphite 49 to this unit and for get about any other keyboard controller? Good on you Roland. The Mx-1 alone brings all my old school together. mini disc digital multi tracker and the PC... ( which i hate btw)... but man. You guys are "off the chain" when it comes to being here for us old guys! btw, I just saw this for sale at just under$650.00. MPC best be ready with something..., because this tops all those others. Thank you Roland keep up the good work!!! Fantastic Video. thank you and God bless and keep you.
Reversed "One two" sounds like :
"-Whoosh ?
-No !"
Great Video! Will be getting mine in March, and will MIDI my Korg Wavestate MkII & Korg Modwave MkII to this and have some great fun, YAAAAYYYYY 😄👍
I WOULD RATHER PLAY WITH THE AKAI LIVE,,
I just got mine today. Very easy to navigate.
version 1.0.....thats the impression i had too, and sounds like a roland move. at that price i can wait for 2.0. im also guessing loading and moving samples is a hassle at this point. sd card? nobody showed this yet. no slicing samples from what i hear.
I said but didn't show - it has a disk mode via USB, or just take the card out and put in your computer. Trimming, no slicing.
@@loopop thanks for the info loopop, id like to see how hard or easy it is working with / moving samples. would be nice.