Vintage Synth Explorer Forums

Do these machines have precisely the same sequencing functions? Would I be missing out on good sounds if I got an R5 instead of an R8? I want to run it in sync with the computer, to try it out as a self contained groove machine.

And maybe later use it to trigger my own drum sounds in Kontakt. Tried an R5 a while back, and another Roland DM I can't remember, and getting MIDI out (note assignments etc.) was absolutely painful.

I've owned both of the drum machines, I can not recall if the sequencing was the same becuase I used a MPC as the master. You can review the manuals.

Yes and No for missing out on sounds. If you bought zero rom cards for the R8, then the basic sounds from the r5 and r8 are primarily the same.

I personally would grab the R8, grab all the ROM cards, and never think about the R5 again.

Take a look at the r70, I'm positive all the sounds(ROM CARDS TOO) from the R8 is on it.

I have owned an R5 and it's a nice drum machine, the sounds are a bit drab but can be enhanced a little. Judging by the demos I've heard I wouldn't buy a standard R8, but rather the R8 mkII as it contains a lot more electronic sounds including 808 and 909 cards.

The sequencer really is the main charm these days.. go with the R5. Exactly the same if you have no interest in using the audio outs

Thanks folks! What about the R70, does that have the "Human Feel" termplates also?

wiss wrote:I've owned both of the drum machines, I can not recall if the sequencing was the same becuase I used a MPC as the master. You can review the manuals.

Yes, I've done that thanks but it's always good to get some opinions.