Roland CR-78 CompuRhythm

The Roland CR-78 CompuRhythm is the missing link between organ-top rhythm boxes and the drum machines that built hip hop. Released in 1978, it was the first drum machine run by a microprocessor, and the first that let players write, save and replay their own patterns.

History

Its 14 analog sounds and battery-backed memory made it a studio favorite, heard on Blondie’s “Heart of Glass,” Phil Collins’ “In the Air Tonight” and Hall & Oates’ “I Can’t Go for That.” User programming came through the optional WS-1 step programmer; Roland made about 8,000 CR-78s and only about 2,000 WS-1s. Production ended in 1981.

The hip hop connection

We haven’t found a documented hip hop record made on the CR-78. Its importance is as an ancestor: Roland’s next drum machine, the TR-808, took the idea of programmable analog drums and became the heartbeat of rap.

Buying one today

Check whether a WS-1 is included, since without it you can only play presets. Check the battery compartment for corrosion. Don’t confuse it with the smaller, non-programmable CR-68.