Roland TR-1000 Firmware 1.5 Adds Keyboard Mode, FM Instruments + New Effects
Roland TR-1000 Rhythm Creator gains per-step pitch programming, keyboard mode, 50 additional FM instruments, new effects, and expanded routing options with firmware version 1.5.
Roland’s TR-1000 Rhythm Creator version 1.50 adds new capabilities for melodic sequencing, sound design, and live performance.
The free update introduces a NOTE parameter for compatible sound generators, a new KEYBOARD play mode, and 50 FM instruments drawn from the TR-8S library. It also adds new multi-effects, expanded modulation assignments, more flexible audio routing, and several workflow improvements.
The update builds on the TR-1000’s combination of analog synthesis, digital sound generators, sampling, and pattern-based sequencing, giving users additional ways to develop pitched parts and manage transitions during performance.
Features:
- Melodic Sequencing and Keyboard Mode:
- A new NOTE step parameter allows users to specify pitch in semitones for compatible sound generators, making it possible to program melodic sequences alongside conventional drum patterns.
- The new KEYBOARD play mode transforms the TR-1000’s step buttons into a playable keyboard for compatible sound generators. The mode includes two playing configurations and built-in scale options.
- Additional FM Instruments:
- The update adds 50 FM instruments from the Roland TR-8S instrument library, expanding the TR-1000’s available digital percussion and sound-design options.
- A new COARSE parameter is available on all FM sound generators, providing an additional control for adjusting pitch.
- New Effects:
- Four new multi-effects are included: Roll, Roll 2, Rev Pan Delay, and SBF-325. The SBF-325 effect is also available as an insert effect, expanding the options for processing individual sounds.
- New modulation destinations include Layer A/B pan and the insert delay’s TIME parameter. The insert delay TIME parameter can also be assigned to a hardware knob.
- Improved Live Performance and Kit Switching:
- A new KEEP KIT EFX & EXT IN setting allows external input, reverb, delay, modulation, multi-effects, and analog effects settings to be retained when switching kits. When enabled, reverb, delay, and external-input sound continues uninterrupted across kit changes.
- The analog effects routing options now include an ANALOG setting, which routes analog effects to the dedicated AFX output only. The existing MIX+ANA routing option remains available.
- Expanded Output Routing:
- A new MIX ONLY option for individual outputs prevents a track’s sound from being sent through its individual hardware output while keeping the track available as digital audio over USB.
- Workflow Improvements:
- A new PATTERN SELECT MODE setting offers a MANUAL option that requires users to press ENTER to confirm a pattern selection when browsing with the encoders.
- The new AUTO TRACK SELECT option automatically selects a track when users press its step button in instrument play or record modes.
- A Sample Auto Adjust system parameter matches imported sample levels to the destination preset category.
- Interface Updates:
- The Song Mode interface now provides clearer indications of encoder functions. The Tempo screen features a larger BPM readout and indicators for tempo nudging.
- Filter EQ types are now represented graphically, while tune and decay offset values use an inverted bar graphic over the generator parameter display.
Roland TR-1000 system software version 1.50 is available now as a free update for existing TR-1000 owners.
