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CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer

Paid#20 of 30 in Drum Machine Software

CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer: A focused CR-78 emulation for producers who want deep vintage rhythm programming. Ranked #20 of 30 in Drum Machine Software by our editors (7.2/10); pricing: 30-day trial; best for CR-78-style vintage rhythm programming.

7.2/10Editor score

Visit Roland Cloud

CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer7.2 Visit Roland Cloud

At a glance

Editor score
7.2 / 10
Pricing
30-day trial
Best for
CR-78-style vintage rhythm programming
Sequencing mode
Step
Founded
1972 · Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, Japan
Facts checked
20 Sep 2026

Where it wins
- Analog Circuit Behavior modeling captures the CR-78 sound and response.
- Sub-steps, accents, shuffle, and A/B variations deepen pattern programming.
- AU, VST3, and AAX support connects it to major DAW plug-in workflows.
Where it doesn't
- Its sound palette is centered on the CR-78 rather than broad drum synthesis.
- The plug-in workflow depends on a compatible AU, VST3, or AAX host.
- A paid product, though a 30-day trial is available before purchase.

Our verdict on CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer

CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer is a Roland Cloud plug-in for macOS and Windows, aimed at music producers and electronic musicians who want the sound and behavior of Roland’s CR-78 in a DAW-based workflow. Its Analog Circuit Behavior modeling focuses the instrument on vintage CR-78-style rhythm programming, while 11 pattern tracks, preset kits, and a pattern library provide a structured starting point.

The sequencing section is its main point of depth. Each instrument has tuning, level, decay, pan, and volume controls, while the step sequencer adds sub-steps, accents, shuffle, and last-step controls. A/B pattern variations support mutes, solos, and grid editing, and DAW tempo synchronization keeps patterns aligned with a project. Parameter automation adds further control during arrangement, while drag-and-drop export can place MIDI or rendered audio into a production.

Its ecosystem fit is practical for producers already working with plug-ins: AU, VST3, and AAX formats cover common DAW hosting environments, and automation connects the instrument to an existing mix and arrangement. The 30-day trial gives prospective buyers time to assess whether the modeled CR-78 character suits their work. Choose it for focused vintage rhythm programming, detailed step editing, and direct DAW integration. Choose another drum machine plug-in if you need a wider sound identity or a workflow built outside AU, VST3, or AAX hosting.

Your product? Our editors can test CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer pricing

Plans 30-day trialPaid No free plan — trial or paid only. Prices checked 20 Sep 2026.

See plans on roland.com

CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer fact sheet

Free plan	Not verified
Paid from	Not verified
Platform	Plugin
Sequencing mode	Step
MIDI support	Yes
Sample import	Not verified
Live performance tools	Not verified
Pattern tracks	11 tracks
Free trial	30 days
Deployment	Desktop
Platforms	Windows, macOS
Support	Docs
Built for	Solo, Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate)
Pricing	30-day trial (source)
Website	roland.com
Facts checked	20 Sep 2026

Alternatives to CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer

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Featured on iTechGuides

CR-78 Software Rhythm Composer is listed in our Drum Machine Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update