| Roland MC-303 groovebox | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Manufacturer | Roland |
| Dates | 1996–1997 |
| Price | £565 UK, $699 US |
| Technical specifications | |
| Polyphony | 28-note |
| Timbrality | 8-part multitimbral |
| LFO | Yes |
| Synthesis type | Sample-based synthesis (rompler) |
| Storage memory | 448 preset sounds, 12 drum kits |
| Effects | reverb/delay, chorus/flanger |
| Input/output | |
| Keyboard | No |
| External control | MIDI in/out |
The Roland MC-303 is the first of a series of musical instruments known as a groovebox. It combines a simple sound module with a sequencer to record and store notation, along with controls aimed at encouraging the musician to improvise the music while it is playing. Despite the number in its name and the attention it received at its launch, the MC-303 has more in common with other MC prefixed synthesizers (such as the Roland MC-202), which contain built-in sequencers, than it does with the famous Roland TB-303. As the first Groovebox, the MC-303 was the first in a line of inexpensive products specifically targeted towards house DJs and amateur home musicians rather than professional producers. It was superseded by the Roland MC-505. It is the predecessor to the Roland JX-305, Roland D2, Roland MC-307, Roland EG-101, Roland MC-09, Roland MC-909, Roland MC-808, and most recently the Roland MC-707 in 2019, along with its more portable sibling, the Roland MC-101.