Ahead of the 2026 NAMM Show, being held Jan 22–24 in Anaheim, California, Roland has introduced the CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer, a plugin emulation of their CR-78 drum machine.
Introduced in 1978, the CR-78 was what Roland calls “the world’s first computer-controlled programmable drum machine”. It was a transitional device, halfway between pre-programmed organ-top beatboxes and pioneering drum machines like the TR-808 and TR-909.
While not as iconic as their later drum machines, the CR-78 was used on classic tracks, ranging from Blondie’s Heart Of Glass to Phil Collins’ In The Air Tonight.
Recreated using component-level modeling, CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer is designed to recreate the sound of the original, and also to provide modern sound-shaping and advanced sequencing tools.
Roland CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer Audio Demos:
Pricing and Availability:
Roland CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer is available now with an intro price of $49 USD (normally $199) for a lifetime key. It’s also available with a Roland Cloud Ultimate membership.
I CAN FEEL IT COMIN’… IN THE AIR TONIGHT, O LAWD!!! 😀
This is the one that should/could have been added using the many empty slots of the TR8.
TR-8S has it!
So Roland released new instrument plugin after 3 years of nothing that nobody asked for…?
Ps; The most requested plugin on RC forums was JP-8000….
Oh well, Maybe in 2029….
Sounds good but the CR-78 FROM MARS samples are like $15 and perfect.