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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.

Roland has released a free firmware updated for the TR-1000 drum machine, expanding its sound design and performance capabilities.

Here’s what’s new in Roland TR-1000 version 1.20:

• New MFX include SP-303 and SP-404 Vinyl Sims, Cassette Sim, and DJFX Delay, adding new ways to shape and texture your patterns.
• LFO functionality has also been enhanced, with new modes for more controlled, rhythmic modulation.
• Version 1.20 introduces new ACB sound generators for powerful 808 and 909 bass tones, alongside workflow improvements like independent layer panning, updated gain staging, and expanded MIDI control.

The video covers the key updates:

00:00 Intro
00:21 New MFX
03:10 Locked-In LFOs
05:55 Kit LFO
07:25 LFO Sample and Hold
08:42 808 and 909 Bass Lines
09:56 Independent Panning and IFX Switch
11:19 Gain Staging and MIDI
12:06 Final Thoughts

Synthesist Starsky Carr – in his latest video – shares a head-to-head comparison between the classic Roland TR-909 and the new TR-1000 drum machine.

“I put the Roland TR-1000 head-to-head with my original Roland TR-909 to see how close we can actually get”, notes Carr, “and more importantly, where the differences really matter.”

Topics covered:

Kick, snare, clap, rim & tom comparisons

Analogue voices vs ACB models (and why that’s ironic…)

The real difference between main outputs and individual outs

Why the 909 sounds more “band-limited” and less hi-fi

Frequency analysis & Match EQ deep dive in Logic

The exact EQ curve to give your 909 samples that crusty main-out character

Why obsessing over 1:1 matching might be missing the point

Carr argues that the key to recreating the classic 909 sound isn’t tweaking the TR-1000, but band-limiting the output. He demonstrates to how to recreate this, using Logic’s Match EQ.

Is the Roland TR-1000 close enough to replace the TR-909? Check out the comparison and share your thoughts in the comments!