User Manual

RD-8 MKII
Classic Analog Drum Machine with 16 Drum Sounds, 64 Step Sequencer,
Wave Designer and Dual-Mode Filter

V 1.0
2 RD-8 MKII User Manual

Table of Contents
Thank you........................................................................ 2
Important Safety Instructions....................................... 3
Legal Disclaimer.............................................................. 3
Limited warranty............................................................. 3
1. Introduction................................................................ 4
2. Features....................................................................... 5
3. Front and Rear Panel Control Layout........................ 5
4. Overview..................................................................... 8
5. Creating a Pattern (Step Mode)................................. 9
6. Playing a Pattern (Pattern Mode)............................ 11
7. Creating a Song (Pattern Chaining Mode) ............. 11
8. Creating a Song Chain
(Song Mode)................................................................... 12
9. Wave Designer.......................................................... 12
10. Analog Filter........................................................... 13
11. Settings.................................................................... 14
12. Software Updates .................................................. 17
13. Parameters.............................................................. 18
14. New Features Overview......................................... 22
15. RD-8 Set-up Example ............................................ 24
16. Specifications.......................................................... 26
17. Glossary................................................................... 27

Thank you
Thank you very much for expressing your confidence in Behringer by purchasing
the RD-8 MKII with 16 original drum sounds, 64-step sequencer, integrated Wave
Designer, integrated dual-mode filter, 11 independent analog outputs plus a
mono mix, 16 authentic step pads, 16 pattern changes per song and an easily
readable 7-segment 4-character LED display for tempo.
3 RD-8 MKII User Manual

Important Safety 9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized 20. Please keep the environmental aspects of battery
Instructions or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades disposal in mind. Batteries must be disposed-of at a
with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug battery collection point.
has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide 21. This apparatus may be used in tropical and moderate
blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the climates up to 45°C.
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an
electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or LEGAL DISCLAIMER
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, Music Tribe accepts no liability for any loss which may
Terminals marked with this symbol carry
and the point where they exit from the apparatus. be suffered by any person who relies either wholly or in
electrical current of sufficient magnitude
to constitute risk of electric shock. 11. Use only attachments/accessories specified by part upon any description, photograph, or statement
Use only high-quality professional speaker cables with the manufacturer. contained herein. Technical specifications, appearances
¼" TS or twist-locking plugs pre-installed. All other and other information are subject to change without
12. Use only with the
installation or modification should be performed only notice. All trademarks are the property of their
cart, stand, tripod, bracket,
by qualified personnel. respective owners. Midas, Klark Teknik, Lab Gruppen,
or table specified by the
Lake, Tannoy, Turbosound, TC Electronic, TC Helicon,
This symbol, wherever it appears, manufacturer, or sold with
Behringer, Bugera, Aston Microphones and Coolaudio
alerts you to the presence of uninsulated the apparatus. When a cart
are trademarks or registered trademarks of Music
dangerous voltage inside the is used, use caution when
Tribe Global Brands Ltd. © Music Tribe Global Brands
enclosure - voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a moving the cart/apparatus
Ltd. 2021 All rights reserved.
risk of shock. combination to avoid
injury from tip-over.
This symbol, wherever it appears,
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or LIMITED WARRANTY
alerts you to important operating and
when unused for long periods of time.
maintenance instructions in the For the applicable warranty terms and conditions
accompanying literature. Please read the manual. 14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. and additional information regarding Music Tribe’s
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been Limited Warranty, please see complete details online at
Caution damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug musictribe.com/warranty.
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen
remove the top cover (or the rear section). into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed
No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has
qualified personnel. been dropped.
Caution 15. The apparatus shall be connected to a MAINS socket
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, outlet with a protective earthing connection.
do not expose this appliance to rain and 16. Where the MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is
moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall
or splashing liquids and no objects filled with liquids, remain readily operable.
such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
17. Correct disposal of this
Caution product: This symbol indicates
These service instructions are for use that this product must not be
by qualified service personnel only. disposed of with household
To reduce the risk of electric shock do not perform any waste, according to the WEEE
servicing other than that contained in the operation Directive (2012/19/EU) and
instructions. Repairs have to be performed by qualified your national law. This product
service personnel. should be taken to a collection center licensed for the
1. Read these instructions. recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment
(EEE). The mishandling of this type of waste could have
2. Keep these instructions.
a possible negative impact on the environment and
3. Heed all warnings. human health due to potentially hazardous substances
4. Follow all instructions. that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time,
5. Do not use this apparatus near water. your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product
will contribute to the efficient use of natural resources.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
For more information about where you can take your
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. city office, or your household waste collection service.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as 18. Do not install in a confined space, such as a book
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus case or similar unit.
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
19. Do not place naked flame sources, such as lighted
candles, on the apparatus.
4 RD-8 MKII User Manual

About the RD-8 MKII 1. Introduction

• Authentic recreation of the influential and highly sought after legendary
An ultra-affordable leap into the warm world of analog drum beats, the
analog drum machine
Behringer RD-8 MKII gives you the power to create fascinating rhythms with
• 16 original drum sounds with additional parameters and incredible power and ease. The RD-8 MKII’s pure analog signal uses legendary
global Accent capability analog circuits with some additional pots for more parameters.
• Modern and versatile workflow provides enhanced playability, enabling you The RD-8 MKII is ideal for the studio and/or the road. Owning an RD-8 MKII gives
to create captivating live performances you all the power of a classic drum machine in a flexible package with the ability
to create bewildering beats.
• Powerful 64-step drum sequencer supports poly-meter, step-repeat,
note-repeat, Real-Time Triggering, track-mute and track-solo
1.1 Before you get started
• Integrated FX bus features Wave Designer and dual-mode Analog Filter with
The RD-8 MKII was carefully packed in the factory to guarantee safe transport.
per voice assignment
Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the packaging and its
• Live recording, editing and playback of Analog Filter cutoff via automation contents for any signs of physical damage that may have occurred during transit.
If the unit is damaged, please do NOT return it to us, but notify your dealer and
• Storage of up to 16 songs and 256 patterns, all of which can be imported/
the shipping company immediately, otherwise claims for damage or replacement
exported during playback for unlimited songs and patterns
may not be granted.
• Pattern Mode allows arrangement of patterns into full songs and setting
number of repeats per song part 1.1.1 Initial operation
• Song Mode allows chaining songs together for live sets and Be sure that there is enough space around the unit for cooling purposes and,
expanded compositions to avoid over-heating, please do not place the RD-8 MKII on high temperature
devices such as radiators or power amps.
• Unique Auto Scroll feature enables improvisation in all modes
• Comprehensive MIDI In/Out/Thru and USB implementation for

•
synchronization and connection to external devices
Sync options include USB, MIDI, Clock and Internal for maximum versatility
! WARNING: The RD-8 MKII is supplied with a DC power adapter that
meets the required safety standards. Do not use any other power adapter.
• 11 independent analog outputs for external processing or recording your
rhythms as multi-track audio
•
•
Powerful headphone and main outputs with ¼ (6.35 mm) connectors
High-visibility LED display makes it easy to verify program parameters
! WARNING: Please make sure that all units have a proper ground
connection. For your own safety, never remove or disable the ground conductor
from any units.
• Robust encoder for editing parameters such as Tempo, Swing, Probability,
Flam and Random
1.2 The product manual
• 16 authentic-style step buttons with bold LED indicators for easy
This product manual is designed to give you both an overview of the RD-8 MKII,
pattern creation
as well as detailed information on each of the controls and parameters. This
• 3-Year Warranty Program* manual is based on software version V2.1.2. Further features and updates
will be added later so please regularly check for software updates using the
• Designed and engineered in the U.K.
SYNTHTRIBE App. You will find an overview of the physical control elements in
the next chapter.
*Warranty details can be found at www.musictribe.com

1.3 Preparation

! CAUTION: Remember to turn your monitors/loudspeakers on last

when powering up your system. Turn your monitors/loudspeakers off first when
powering down your system.
5 RD-8 MKII User Manual

2. Features USB Control

To bring the RD-8 MKII into the modern world USB has been added for sync and
A Past Masterpiece Rejuvenated
midi triggering. The RD-8 MKII can be controlled by a DAW if required. Songs and
Great care has been taken in designing the RD-8 MKII to achieve new possibilities patterns exchanged, or individual sounds triggered by the DAW sequencer.
in beat creation by reviving a timeless analog design from one of the best classic
drum machines of yesteryear. By creating a fresh modern take on a characteristic Trigger Happy Controls and Connectivity
drum machine, the RD-8 MKII gives you the power to harness the phenomenal
The RD-8 MKII has 29 knobs, 5 switches and 59 buttons, all laid out in a highly-
sound of the original. Colossal bass drums through to sizzling hi-hats can be
intuitive format that puts the fun back into your drum beat creation. Input and
manipulated to take your rhythm conception to the next level. This is no digital
output connections include: audio input/output, MIDI input, output and thru over
clone, it’s an analog beat making monster.
USB and 5 pin MIDI din ports. With 3 trigger outs the RD-8 MKII lets you control
external synths and hardware sequencers to create songs without a digital audio
Powerful and Feature Rich Sequencer
workstation (DAW) in sight. Full live performances can be made using these extra
The RD-8 MKII features what we believe to be one of the most powerful step outputs by controlling other units. The RD-8 MKII can also send and receive clock
sequencers ever created. Improved workflows increase productivity making information with highly accurate timing to sync it to the outside world.
complex song creation simple. The 64-step sequencer with storage of up to 256
patterns and 16 songs allows complicated song arrangements. You are covered
We always strive to provide the best possible customer experience. Our products
A Design for Life
are made in our own Music Tribe factory using state-of-the-art automation,
Designed for life and live performance, including all new features for live use in enhanced production workflows and quality assurance labs with the most
each of the sequencer modes: Step Repeat, Note Repeat, Real-Time Triggering sophisticated test equipment available in the world. As a result, we have one of
and live Step-Overdubbing. Enable recording in Pattern Launch Mode to build up the lowest product failure rates in the industry, and we confidently back it up
song structures on the fly, switch back to Manual Mode at the touch of a button, with a generous warranty program.
and then use Autofill to introduce more variations. Cue up another song from
memory, without interrupting playback, so you can literally perform entire sets
straight from the one machine. 3. Front and Rear Panel
Advanced Dual-Mode Filter
Control Layout
To add new possibilities to the RD-8 MKII it has a highly-flexible 12 dB filter, 3.1 Top Controls
which lets you freely experiment with the cutoff frequency and resonance to
create out-of-this-world beats. RD-8 MKII’s HPF button toggles between LPF 3.1.1 Volume Section
(lo-pass filter) and HPF (hi-pass filter). Fluid sweeps of the filter’s CUTOFF knob
can be recorded straight into the sequencer and can be further tweaked in the
Step Editor.

Wave Shaping Goodness

(1) (2)
The integrated Wave Designer has individual ATTACK and SUSTAIN controls for
adding another dimension to drum beats. Sounds can be controlled in new ways
(1) MASTER – Controls the main output level.
to provide exciting new tones.
(2) PHONES – Adjusts the headphones level. NOTE: The headphones
Polymeter Mode signal is taken before the Wave Designer and Filter for monitoring
purposes. This means the Wave Designer and Filter are not audible
RD-8 MKII gives you the power to control loops in new ways with the Loop
in the headphones.
Overlay function, which generates continual variations and Polymetric to
add spice to your beats. With the Loop Overlay function, you can set different
3.1.2 Analog Filter Section
sequence lengths for each of the drum tracks independently to create complex
overlapping rhythms and make your song structures really evolve.

Parameter Chaining
Set separate chain preferences for each of your parameters, allowing them to
persist globally or to switch on song or pattern changes. Parameters include (3) (4) (5) (6)
Tempo, Swing, Flam, Probability, independent track mutes/solos, FX bus
assignments, Filter Modes and sweeps for enhanced real-time control. Patterns (3) CUTOFF – Adjusts the cutoff frequency of the filter.
can be changed on the fly for further creative control when using the RD-8 MKII
(4) HPF – Toggle the filter between HPF (hi-pass filter) and
as the heart of your live setup.
LPF (lo-pass filter, default).
Creative Auto Fill (5) ON – Engages the filter into circuit when illuminated.
The auto fill function lets you make on the fly changes and gives that extra (6) RESONANCE – Adjusts the resonance of the filter. This emphasizes the
touch to your compositions by adding fills at any point in a song. This gives the frequencies around the cutoff point.
RD-8 MKII a musical edge when it comes to bringing songs to life.
6 RD-8 MKII User Manual

3.1.3 Wave Designer 3.1.7 Playback Controls

(23) (24) (28) (30) (31) (32) (33)

(7) (8) (9) (10)

(7) ATTACK – Controls the attack portion of the Wave Designer circuit. (29)
Turn counter clockwise (CCW) to reduce the attack portion of the signal and
clockwise (CW) to enhance the attack portion of the selected signal.
(8) SIG – Shows that signal is present in the Wave Designer circuit.
(25) (26) (27)
(9) SEND – Activates the Wave Designer assignment menu. The button is
illuminated when one or more voices are assigned to this bus.
(23) TAP/HOLD – Set the tempo of the unit with 5 taps. Hold for quick
(10) SUSTAIN – Controls the sustain portion of the Wave Designer circuit. macro control.
Turn CCW to reduce the sustain portion of the signal and turn CW to lengthen
(24) DISPLAY – Multi function 4-character display.
the sustain.
(25) RECORD – Enable/disable record mode.
3.1.4 Edit Section
(26) STOP – Stops the currently playing song or pattern.
(27) PLAY/PAUSE – Play or pause the current song or pattern.
(28) DATA – Encoder for data editing.
(11) (12) (13) (14) (29) DATA MODE – Cycles through the various Data Modes. Tempo, Swing,
Probability and Flam.
(11) SAVE – Save a song or pattern to a memory slot.
(30) TEMPO – Adjust the Tempo parameter when selected with the
(12) COPY – Copy pattern from one location to another memory location. DATA encoder.
(13) ERASE – Delete the selected song, pattern or settings. (31) SWING – Adjust the Swing parameter or shuffle feeling when selected
with the DATA encoder (25% negative swing to 50% straight then on
(14) DUMP – Performs a MIDI SysEx Dump of pattern, song or settings.
to 75% full swing).
3.1.5 Mode Section (32) PROB – Adjust the probability factor of steps triggering.
(33) FLAM – Adjust the FLAM width.

3.1.8 Auto Scroll Section

(15) (16) (17) (34) (35)
(15) SONG – Enter Song Mode. Cue 1 of 16 songs.
(16) PATTERN – Enter Pattern Mode. Use the 16 available patterns to build
your song.
(17) STEP – Shows each available step for the selected voice (up to 64 steps (36) (37) (38)
per pattern).
(34) AUTO SCROLL – Step Mode: Keep Playhead visible. Pattern Mode: Advance
3.1.6 Sync Section
song when loop expires. If Auto Scroll is enabled for a pattern that has more
than 16 steps, when the Playhead advances beyond a 16-step boundary,
the steps will automatically switch pages to stay in sync with the Playhead.
(35) BANKS 16/32/48/64 – White shows bank position of Playhead in current
(18) (19) (20) (21) (22) pattern. Red shows currently-viewed bank position.
(36) << (POSITION MOVE LEFT) - Step Mode: Choose viewed bank position.
(18) CYCLE – Cycles through the various SYNC options when the sequencer is
Pattern Mode: Choose Playhead position within selected song.
stopped. Internal, MIDI, USB or TRIG (External Clock) options.
(37) LENGTH – Step mode: Set the length of the selected pattern. Pattern Mode:
(19) INTERNAL – The unit is the sync master.
Set number of repeats for selected part within the song.
(20) MIDI – Sync is taken from MIDI in port.
(38) >> (POSITION MOVE RIGHT) - Step Mode: Choose viewed bank position.
(21) USB – Sync is taken from the USB port. Pattern Mode: Choose Playhead position within selected song.
(22) TRIG – Sync is taken from the External Clock input.
7 RD-8 MKII User Manual

3.1.9 Step & Note Repeat Section 3.1.10 Track Control and Settings

(46) (45)
(47)
(48)
(50)
(39) (40) (41) (42) (43) (44) (51)

(39) 1 – Step or Note repeat of a value of 1.

(47) MUTE – Activates mute menu.
(40) 2 – Step or Note repeat of a value of 2.
(48) SOLO – Activates solo menu.
(41) 4 – Step or Note repeat of a value of 4.
(49) STEP BUTTONS – Used to input step information into patterns and is
(42) 8 – Step or Note repeat of a value of 8.
also used for various system tasks when used in conjunction with the
(43) STEP REPEAT – Repeats the step by the selected value. (50) SETTINGS button or for deeper editing.
(44) NOTE REPEAT – Repeats the note played with the trigger button by the (50) SETTINGS – Used in combination with the (49) STEP BUTTONS to select
selected value. different operational modes.
(45) TRIGGER – Trigger repeats when engaged. (51) AUTOFILL – Select and add a fill pattern.
(46) 1/2/4/8 – Indication of number of repeats selected.

3.1.11 Voice Control

(52)
(53)

(54) (59)
(55)
(56) (57)
(58)

(52) LEVEL – Level of the 11 voices, plus Accent. (56) SNAPPY – Adjust the amount of snap sound to the snare sound. Turning CW
increases snap.
(53) TUNING – Relative tuning of associated voice.
(57) VOICE SWITCH – Switch between the two voices available.
(54) TONE – Applies a filter to the voice reducing the high frequencies as you
turn CCW. (58) VOICE SELECT – Selects the voice for editing patterns, Wave Designer,
soloing or mute.
(55) DECAY – Changes the decay time of the voice. Turn CCW for shorter,
CW for longer. (59) OFFSET – Changes the length of the Hand Clap sound.
 8 RD-8 MKII User Manual

3.2 Rear Panel connections

(60) (61) (62) (63) (64) (84) (65) (66) (67) (68) (69) (70) (71) (72) (73) (74) (75) (76) (77) (78) (79) (80) (81) (8

66) (67) (68) (69) (70) (71) (72) (73) (74) (75) (76) (77) (78) (79) (80) (81) (82) (83)

(60) POWER – Connect the supplied PSU here and engage power switch to (81) TRIGGER OUT 3 – +5 v 1ms pulse to trigger external devices.
turn on. ¼ (6.35 mm) unbalanced output. Fixed to Accent.
(61) PHONES - Connect headphones via a ¼ (6.35 mm) TRS connector. (82) SYNC IN – SYNC to external device transmitting clock information using a
1/8 (3.5 mm) TRS jack. Start/stop signal on ring and clock on tip.
(62) MONO – Main output via a ¼ (6.35 mm) TRS connector.
(83) SYNC OUT – SYNC external devices to the Rhythm Designer using an
(63) RETURN – Sums audio post filter bus. ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced connector.
unbalanced 1/8 (3.5 mm) jack.
(64) USB – Connect to a computer for updates and DAW control.
(84) BOOT – Enter DFU boot mode for software updates.
(65) MIDI IN – To input MIDI from an external MIDI device such as a sequencer
or DAW.
(66) MIDI OUT – Output of MIDI data to an external MIDI device.
4. Overview
This overview will help you set up the RD-8 MKII analog rhythm designer and
(67) MIDI THRU – A direct output of the MIDI in to chain to other devices.
briefly introduce its capabilities.
(68) CH INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced output of the
Closed Hat. 4.1 Connections
(69) OH INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced output of the The RD-8 MKII has a ¼ (6.35 mm) mono jack output on the rear of the unit plus
Open Hat. 11 independent voice ¼ (6.35 mm) jacks. When the individual voice outputs are
used and connected, they cut that voice from the MAIN MONO output. This is
(70) CY INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced output of the Cymbal. useful for adding effects or external processing to individual sounds.
(71) CB INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced output of the Cow Bell. Audio return is via the ¼ (6.35 mm) mono RETURN jack on the rear panel.
This input can be used to process an individual voice or voices via external
(72) CP/MA INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced output of the processing (mixer, compressor or reverb, etc.), then return the signal back into
Hand Clap or Maracas. the main output of the RD-8 MKII. Please consult the connection set-up guide for
(73) RS/CL INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced output of the examples (8.1).
Rim Shot or Claves. The CLOCK IN/OUT connections use 1/8 (3.5mm) TRS jacks.
(74) HT/HC INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced output of the High CAUTION: Do not overload the 1/8 (3.5 mm) CLOCK IN input. This jack can only
Tom or High Conga. accept voltages up to a maximum of +15 V. The 3.5 mm CLOCK OUT outputs
should only be connected to inputs capable of receiving the output voltages.
(75) MT/MC INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced output of the Mid Failure to follow these instructions may damage the RD-8 MKII or external units.
Tom or Mid Conga.
(76) LT/LC INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced output of the
4.2 Software Setup
Low Tom or Low Conga. The RD-8 MKII is a USB Class Compliant MIDI device, and so no driver installation
is required. The RD-8 MKII does not require any additional drivers to work with
(77) SD INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced output of the
Windows and MacOS. The SYNTHTRIBE App is available which can be used to
Snare Drum.
update and control many features of the RD-8 MKII.
(78) BD INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – ¼ (6.35 mm) Unbalanced output of the
Bass Drum. 4.3 Hardware Setup
(79) TRIGGER OUT 1 – +5 v 1ms pulse to trigger external devices. ¼ (6.35 mm) First make all the audio and power connections to your system. Connect a DAW,
unbalanced output. external sequencer or keyboard with MIDI output directly to the RD-8 MKII
MIDI IN 5-pin DIN type input or via MIDI over USB if desired. Apply power to the
(80) TRIGGER OUT 2 – +5 v 1ms pulse to trigger external devices. ¼ (6.35 mm) RD-8 MKII using the supplied power adapter only. Ensure your sound system
unbalanced output. is turned down. Turn on the RD-8 MKII rear power switch. Use the MIDI page
in the settings function to set the RD-8 MKII to a unique MIDI channel within
your system.
9 RD-8 MKII User Manual

4.4 Voice Section

In this section the sounds and controls are described to help you achieve the most from the RD-8 MKII which has 16 sounds, plus Accent.

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12)

(1) ACCENT – This function is used to give emphasis to any voice programmed 5. Creating a Pattern (Step Mode)
on the same step. The LEVEL control determines the amount of emphasis
Patterns can use up to 64 steps which gives a great deal of flexibility.
given to the selected voices. Turn Counter Clockwise (CCW) to reduce the
amount of global Accent. Turn Clockwise (CW) to increase the global Accent How to record a basic 16-step pattern:
level. Accent can also be programmed via MIDI or USB by using a velocity
1. Select a SONG.
value of 110 or higher. When a note is programmed above the 110 velocity
level, all other sounds triggered at the same time will be accented too. 2. Press PATTERN.
NOTE: Accent is global across all voices. Any step with an accent programmed
3. Select desired pattern number via step keys 1-16.
on it will accent all voices programmed on that step.
4. Press STEP.
(2) BASS DRUM – This classic sound defined a generation. The LEVEL control
adjusts the level compared to the other voices. TONE applies a filter to the 5. Select desired tempo with Data control.
sound, CCW to remove high frequency information. Turning CW brightens
6. Press RECORD.
the sound. DECAY controls how long the drum will ring. Turn CW for longer
tones. The TUNING function (placed in the Accent section but controls the 7. Select the VOICE you wish to use.
bass drum only) changes the pitch of the bass drum, turn CCW for low
8. Steps can be programmed either with the unit playing (press PLAY) or in the
sounds, turn CW to raise the pitch.
stopped position. The moving white LED is the play head which shows the
(3) SNARE DRUM – The SNAPPY control simulates the sound of the snares current play position. The TRIGGER pad can also be used to play and record
microphone moving closer to and from the bottom drum head. LEVEL and the currently-selected voice.
TONE control as the bass drum voice.
9. Select different voices to add into the current pattern.
(4) LOW TOM/LOW CONGA – The switch determines which sound is in use.
10. Press stop and record to exit record step mode.
TUNING adjusts the pitch of the sound. Turn CCW for low sounds and CCW to
raise the pitch. LEVEL control is the same as the bass drum voice. How to save a pattern:
(5) MID TOM/MID CONGA – Same functions as (4) LOW TOM/LOW CONGA. 1. Once you have created your masterpiece of a pattern press PATTERN.
(6) HI TOM/HI CONGA – Same functions as (4) LOW TOM/LOW CONGA. 2. Press SAVE.
(7) RIM SHOT/CLAVES – The switch determines which sound is in use. 3. Press PATTERN again.
The LEVEL control adjusts the level compared to the other voices.
4. Select the Step number of the Pattern you wish to save, current pattern will
(8) HAND CLAP/MARACAS – The switch determines which sound is in use. be displayed in white after which SAVE will flash.
The LEVEL control adjusts the level compared to the other voices. OFFSET
5. Press the flashing SAVE button to execute the operation.
adjusts the length of the hand clap only, from short (CCW) to long (CW).
(9) COW BELL – The level control gives you more cow bell, if desired.
(10) CYMBAL – LEVEL and TONE control as the bass drum voice. DECAY controls
how long the cymbal rings.
(11) OPEN HAT – The controls are the same as the CYMBAL voice.
(12) CLOSED HAT – LEVEL and TONE control as the bass drum voice. When the
closed hat is programmed on a step immediately after an OPEN HAT, the
closed hat voice cuts the OPEN HAT voice, which is a classic drum machine
trick to simulate a real hi-hat.
10 RD-8 MKII User Manual

Auto Save How to dump a pattern:

The Auto Save function allows certain functions to be automatically The DUMP control works in the same way as the SAVE control. Instead of saving,
stored as listed. the DUMP control will output the selection as a SysEx message. This action sends
the pattern/song data as SysEx. This information can be saved and loaded by a
All the below pattern changes will now be auto saved with STEP RECORD on: third-party program or sent to another RD-8 MKII.
1. Step on/off by pressing STEP button
Auto Fill
2. Press TRIGGER to set step on when playing The Auto Fill function is used to insert fill rhythms into the live play mode of
3. Note repeat live record the RD-8 MKII. Fills are created in the same way a pattern is created and stored.
The difference between Auto Fill and normal pattern playback is that once an
4. Set step on/off in RAND setting menu
Auto Fill has finished playing, the function will return you to the previously
5. Press STEP in pattern length setting played pattern unless you have selected a different pattern while the Auto Fill
6. Sweep erase by Hold + VOICE button function is active. If a different pattern is selected, the new pattern will play after
the Auto Fill pattern has ended.
7. Erasing all steps of selected voice by ERASE + VOICE button The SYNTHTRIBE app is an easy way to save song and pattern data. Patterns and
8. Step copy 1-16 to 17-32 etc Songs can be imported and exported quickly.
To activate Auto Save enter STEP mode, hold TAP/HOLD then press RECORD to How to use Auto Fill
set pattern auto save on or off. Once you have programmed patterns, use any of them by pressing the AUTO FILL
When STEP RECORD is enabled, the display shows "auto" or "manu" for 1 second button in pattern mode and selecting any step key.
to indicate the save mode. Tip: 4 or 8 steps are recommended for drum fills, but any size can be used up to
To recall a stored pattern hold TAP/HOLD + STEP button of the pattern you 64 steps.
wish to restore. This only works when you are in Pattern mode and set to manu Pattern length
(manual) save mode. Pattern length can be changed from 1 to 64 steps on a pattern by pattern
basis. This adjustable length can be used to create different time signatures.
Sweep Erase For example, selecting a pattern length of 12 steps with a step size using 1/16th
The sweep erase function can be used while playing in STEP PLAY or RECORD will create a 3/4 (waltz style) time signature.
mode, by holding TAP/HOLD and then pressing the voice button to remove the To change the number of steps in a pattern:
selected voices steps from pattern while playing. The voice will be deleted before 1. Press the STEP and RECORD buttons.
it is played. In RECORD this is permanent, in PLAY mode the notes will be restored 2. Press LENGTH.
as the play head moves past steps. 3. Use the <</>> keys either side of the LENGTH button to choose either 16,
32, 48 or 64 range as the starting point.
Pattern Copy 4. Press <</>> keys to change to the desired pattern length. For example,
How to copy a pattern: if length 64 is selected, choosing step key 12 will make the pattern 60
1. Press COPY. steps long.
If you are recording a pattern with more than 16 steps, press the Autoscroll
2. Next select the source song with the pattern you wish to copy. button in Step Record to alternate between blocks. For example, when recording
3. Then press PATTERN. a 24 step pattern you will alternate between block one (LED above 16 is lit) with
16 steps and block two (LED above 32 is let) with 8 steps
4. Next select the pattern you wish to copy from the source song via the
step keys. Pattern Step Pattern Pattern Step Pattern
Range Number Length Range Number Length
5. Press COPY. 16 1 1 48 1 33
6. Select destination pattern to copy to via step keys, this copies the source into 16 2 2 48 2 34
this pattern in the current song. 16 3 3 48 3 35
16 4 4 48 4 36
7. Press COPY to execute the operation.
16 5 5 48 5 37
How to quick copy a pattern to other pattern locations: 16 6 6 48 6 38
1. In PATTERN mode, hold copy while pressing the step key you wish to copy to. 16 7 7 48 7 39
16 8 8 48 8 40
How to copy pages in step mode, copy page 1 (1-16), page 2 (17-32),
16 9 9 48 9 41
page 3 (33-48) or page 4 (49-64) to other pages: 16 10 10 48 10 42
1. In STEP mode, press LENGTH to enter pattern length setting. 16 11 11 48 11 43
2. Select a page using the arrows and press COPY. 16 12 12 48 12 44
16 13 13 48 13 45
3. Select the page you wish to copy to with the arrows then press SAVE.
16 14 14 48 14 46
How to erase a pattern: 16 15 15 48 15 47
1. Press ERASE. 16 16 16 48 16 48
32 1 17 64 1 49
2. The SONG and PATTERN buttons will flash. Press PATTERN.
32 2 18 64 2 50
3. Select the pattern you wish to delete via one of the 16 step keys. 32 3 19 64 3 51
4. Press the now flashing ERASE button to execute the delete process. This is a 32 4 20 64 4 52
permanent process and can’t be undone. 32 5 21 64 5 53
11 RD-8 MKII User Manual

32 6 22 64 6 54 Track Mute
32 7 23 64 7 55 This function lets you mute any voice(s) within a pattern, song or globally.
32 8 24 64 8 56 To mute a voice(s):
32 9 25 64 9 57
1. While a pattern is playing select track MUTE.
32 10 26 64 10 58
32 11 27 64 11 59
2. Select the voice(s) you wish to mute.
32 12 28 64 12 60 3. The muted voice(s) will be illuminated in red.
32 13 29 64 13 61 4. Press track MUTE to exit.
32 14 30 64 14 62 NOTE: Hold the HOLD/TAP button and press MUTE to clear all mutes.
32 15 31 64 15 63
32 16 32 64 16 64 Solo functions
This function gives you the ability to solo a voice or voices within a pattern,
Pattern Length Quick Double song or globally.
Push LENGTH, then hold TAP/HOLD and push >> (right double arrow beside To Solo a voice(s):
LENGTH) to immediately duplicate the contents of the current length, this is very
useful when you are working with for 3/4 pattern with 12 steps. 1. While a pattern is playing select track SOLO.
2. Select the voice(s) you wish to solo.
3. The soloed voice(s) will be illuminated in white.
6. Playing a Pattern (Pattern Mode)
4. Press track SOLO to exit.
Press the PATTERN button and select the pattern that you wish to play.
NOTE: SOLO will always take priority over MUTE. Soloing a voice that is muted
In pattern Mode, all patterns with stored pattern data are white, current active is
will cause that voice to sound. Hold TAP/HOLD and press SOLO to clear all solos.
red (you can see which patterns are programmed).
Instant Pattern Switching
Step Repeat
This function allows patterns to be instantly switched to a different pattern at the
This function can be used for changing patterns during a live performance.
same play head position in time.
When STEP REPEAT is triggered the current step or steps (depending on the step
settings) will be repeated until the TRIGGER button is released. The number To perform this switch first select PATTERN MODE. Then hold the PATTERN button
of steps repeated are 1,2, 4 or 8. This is a very powerful feature that can, for and select the next pattern with any white step key (stored pattern).
example be used to loop the end of a pattern creating a fill.
To use:
7. Creating a Song (Pattern
1. Press STEP REPEAT.
2. Select how many repeats you require (1,2,4 or 8)
Chaining Mode)
Pattern mode can be used to trigger any of the 16 patterns available when
3. While a pattern is playing press and hold the TRIGGER button to repeat steps. playing back. Patterns can be chained together to form a song by the
4. The step number can be changed while the TRIGGER button is held to create following steps:
different loops effects. 1. Select song via 16 step keys.
5. Press STEP REPEAT to exit. 2. Press PATTERN to enter Pattern mode.
3. In Pattern Mode press the RECORD button.
Note Repeat
4. Press the STEP BUTTON to select the first pattern in your song.
This feature can be used for transforming patterns during a live performance.
When Note Repeat is triggered the currently selected voice will be repeated until 5. Press the AUTO SCROLL button on and the LENGTH button will be flashing.
the TRIGGER button is released. The number of notes repeated are 1,2, 4 or 8. This 6. Press the LENGTH button (lights solid),
creative feature can be used to create drum roll and ratchet style effects on the 7. Use the DATA knob to select number of repeats.
fly by repeating the current note while the rhythm continues to run.
8. Press any of the STEP BUTTONS to add next step pattern to the song.
To use:
9. Repeat steps 7–8 until all desired patterns have been entered.
1. Press NOTE REPEAT.
10. At any time use the << />> keys with the AUTO SCROLL button lit to move
2. Select how many repeats you require (1,2,4 or 8). forward and backward through the song to check programming. If the
3. While a pattern is playing press and hold the TRIGGER button to LENGTH button is lit, the display will show number of repeats; if the LENGTH
repeat notes. button is flashing, the display will show the pattern number of that step.
4. The note number can be changed while the TRIGGER button is held to create 11. Save the song (with Auto Scroll on).
different fill effects. To save the song that you have just created:
5. Press NOTE REPEAT to exit. 1. Press SAVE.
NOTE: Note repeats can be recored in STEP RECORD mode. To remove a NOTE 2. Press SONG.
REPEAT from a step, remove the programmed step from the pattern. The red LEDs 3. Select destination via step key (current song highlighted with a white LED)
above indicate if the selected step has a repeat of 1,2,4 or 8 programmed. 4. Press SAVE to execute operation.
Note repeat can also be programmed: To Erase a selected pattern in the chain, move to the pattern you wish to remove
• Step 1: enable note repeat and select a repeat number in STEP mode. (by using the << and >> buttons) and press Erase.
• Step 2: select any voice you want. Note: Make sure you store the song with the Auto Scroll on otherwise your song
• Step 3: hold STEP number button then press TRIGGER. will not playback as programmed.
Note repeat can be added with or without step record on with this method.
12 RD-8 MKII User Manual

Note: When you erase a pattern from the chain it doesn’t remove/update the 4. If no Song is selected the chain will go back to Song 1.
number of repeats in that place, so if Pattern 3 repeated 6 times and that pattern
5. Save song.
is deleted from the chain, Pattern 4 would move to that position and will be
repeated 6 times. Example:
After you have programmed and saved 3 songs that are song 1, song 2 and
Live Data Vs Stored Data.
song 3, follow the above instructions, you can chain song 1 to song 2 as below:
In Song mode there are two forms of data stored:
1. Press the SONG button to enter Song Mode, make sure the RECORD is
Live Data: Any changes to songs or patterns that have been made and not stored disabled, press STEP 1 to choose song 1.
are held in live memory
2. Press the RECORD button.
Stored Data: When a song has been stored.
3. Press STEP 2 to chain song 2 to song 1, the red LED of STEP 2 will light.
Use the TAP/HOLD button while editing in COPY/ERASE/DUMP to select either the
4. Save song 1
Live or Stored data.
Now to chain song 2 to song 3:
To erase the live or stored song data:
1. Press the SONG button to enter Song Mode, make sure the RECORD is
1. Enter SONG mode.
disabled, press STEP 2 to choose song 2.
2. Press ERASE.
2. Press the RECORD button.
3. Select SONG.
3. Press STEP 3 to chain song 3 to song 2, the red LED of STEP 3 will light.
4. Use TAP/HOLD to select Live or Stored data.
4. Save song 2
5. Press ERASE to complete the operation.
As song 3 has not been selected in to a chain song, it has the default chain song
which is song 1.
Changing the current song while in playback.
After finishing the above steps, press RECORD to disable it, press STEP 1 to select
It is possible to change the current song while in playback. This allows songs to be
song 1, make sure both AUTO SCROLL in Song and Pattern Mode are set to on,
changed on the fly when needed without having to stop playback.
then press play, the sequencer will play from song 1 to song 2 then to song 3. If
1. Enter SONG MODE. the song chain PREFS is set to loop, after song 3 plays to the end it will go back to
song 1 again.
2. Hold TAP/HOLD button.
Please note that this feature over-rides the Chain Songs function in Settings.
3. Select the next song with step button (1-16) to go to after the current
Deselecting the AUTO SCROLL button while a song is playing reverts to the
pattern has finished.
original Chain Songs setting.
4. The song step button you have selected will flash white while the others will
NOTE: When Auto Scroll is active for Songs it will affect how patterns are played
flash red, now select the pattern from the new song.
back so turn Auto Scroll off for normal pattern playback.
5. When pattern is selected, the button will fast flash red until the selected
TIP: In the SYNTHTRIBE app patterns and songs can be created and saved to and
song and pattern starts.
from the RD-8 MKII.
Note: this will break the song chain playing.
Auto save the chain song:

8. Creating a Song Chain In SONG mode with record enabled, press any step button to select that song as a
chained song for current song, the chained song will be auto saved.
(Song Mode)
Songs are a collection of up to 16 patterns which can be played and interacted
with in a live playing format. Pattern Record mode is used to arrange the patterns
9. Wave Designer
into the structure of a song (described in section 7). Songs must be stored with
Auto Scroll on in order to chain songs together.
A total of 16 songs can be created with up to 16 patterns in each. That makes 256
possible patterns in the unit at any one time.
Wave Designer is a powerful tool for adjusting signal transients and dynamics,
Please note a song has to play to the end before it will advance to the next song.
such as attack and sustain. Use the Wave Designer to make a snare drum really
This is how seamless playback is created for extended performances. You cannot
crack in the mix, or to expand the bass drum to be even more devastating.
switch songs halfway through playback. This can only be done by stopping
With both ATTACK and SUSTAIN controls set to 12 o’clock the Wave Designer
playback and selecting a different song.
is essentially in bypass and will not affect any voices being sent to the Wave
To chain songs: Designer via the bus.
1. Press the SONG button to enter Song Mode, make sure RECORD is disabled, Adjusting the ATTACK knob will make the opening transient of the voice sound
USE the STEP BUTTONS 1-16 to choose a song (white LED on). punchier. Increasing the SUSTAIN control acts in a similar way as a compressor,
allowing the peaks to carry on longer before decay. The effect can also be used to
2. Press the RECORD button.
reduce the sustain for a more staccato sound.
3. You can now select the next song in the chain, this will be shown
NOTE: Using a long sustain on naturally staccato sounds (e.g. Rim Shot)
by a red LED.
may cause noise. Dial this noise out by reducing the sustain amount.
All voices sent to the Wave Designer as described will then pass into the Analog
13 RD-8 MKII User Manual

Filter section to be processed.

The SIG LED shows that a signal is present in the Analog Filter/Wave Designer bus.
The SEND button activates the Wave Designer circuit.
How to assign voices to the FX bus:
1. Press SEND in the FX sections (flashes orange).
2. Use SELECT to assign which voices go to the bus (solid pink LED indicates
voice sent to the FX bus).
3. Press SEND in the FX section to exit. SEND button will be solid white to show
voices are assigned to the FX bus.
TIP: Hold TAP/HOLD while pressing SEND to clear all voice from the FX bus.
The diagram below shows the audio routing of the voices as they pass through
the RD-8 MKII. Only one voice is shown in this example, but the same process
applies to all voices.

10. Analog Filter Live Filter Mode can be toggled on and off, and this toggling action gives you
either manual control of the filter frequency or automated Filter Mode, which
uses the stored filter automation data. The live Filter Mode can be toggled on and
off by holding the TAP/HOLD button and pressing the filter ON button to activate
different states:
• Flashing filter ON button= Filter plays stored automation data
The Analog Filter section works on selected sounds routed via an audio bus fed • Solid filter ON button = Filter in live control mode
from the Wave Designer circuit. At any time, you can drop into Record Mode and adjust the filter settings that will
The CUTOFF control sets the frequency where the filter is applied. The filter cut off be stored with the current pattern, as long as the filter settings are set to Pattern
can be programmed and automated (when the ON button is flashing, automation (see SETTINGS 11.5 below).
is active). It is also possible to manually program the filter per step or to edit a recorded
When the HPF (High Pass Filter) button is engaged the filter cuts the the low filter sweep.
frequency cutoff point as you turn the control CW. When the HPF button is not 1. Press SETTINGS.
engaged, the CUTOFF knob defaults to a lo-pass filter (LPF), which gradually cuts 2. Press FILTER (STEP BUTTON 6).
the high frequencies as you turn the control CCW.
3. Pressing different step keys (1-64) will display the current filter position from
Press the ON button to activate the filter circuit. 0, turn the DATA control counter clockwise (CCW) to 255 turn clockwise (CW).
The RESONANCE control adjusts the resonance of the filter. Turning CW adds a Depending on which filter setting is in use, HPF or LPF, the filter will be fully
peak at the cutoff frequency that accents the surrounding frequencies. open or closed. Up to 64 steps can be programmed using the <</>> keys in
The filter CUTOFF control setting can be recorded as automation. After the LENGTH section to navigate step position.
programming a pattern, add the voice or voices you wish to be processed by the 4. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.
Analog Filter and Wave Designer bus as described earlier in this manual. Next, 5. Save PATTERN.
while the pattern is playing and in Record Mode, rotate the CUTOFF knob and
listen to the results. Once you are happy with your filter sweep exit Record Mode. NOTE: Filter automation will now carry across when extending / copying lengths
Next time you play the pattern, the recorded filter sweep will play back. of patterns.
- turning the Cut Off control in play mode will end playing the automated
Filter mode.
- turning the Cut Off knob in record with Filter on will start recording the
automated Filter.
14 RD-8 MKII User Manual

11. Settings
The Settings functions are listed below. All features are accessed by pressing the SETTINGS button and selecting the associated step key.

11.1 MIDI Swing Preference Options:

To enter the MIDI settings page press SETTINGS, select MIDI (STEP BUTTON 1) and 1. Global, where all patterns Swing settings, even if a different Swing setting is
use the TAP/HOLD key to access the various pages described below: stored within a pattern or song.
1. Choose the MIDI channel from 1-16, All or Out (The Output setting follows 2. Song, where all patterns Swing settings will follow the setting a within that
the MIDI OUT setting in the next step below) for the incoming MIDI IN port. song, even if a different Swing setting is stored within a pattern.
2. Select the MIDI OUT channel from 1-16. 3. Pattern, where all patterns will play with the Swing settings they have been
saved with and not be affected by global or song Swing changes.
3. Turn on FORWARD TO USB to send the MIDI output of the unit to the USB OUT.
4. SOFT THRU on/off turns the MIDI OUT jack into a 2nd MIDI THRU port by Probability Preference Options:
sending the data from the MIDI IN to the MIDI OUT port.
1. Global, where all the patterns probability settings, even if a different
5. DEVICE ID sets the units ID from 1-16. This is helpful when dealing with probability setting is stored within a pattern or song.
multiple units via SysEx.
2. Song, where all patterns probability settings will follow the probability
setting within that song, even if a different probability setting is stored
11.2 USB within a pattern.
To enter the USB MIDI settings page press SETTINGS, select USB MIDI
3. Pattern, where all patterns will play with the probability settings they have
(STEP BUTTON 2) and use the TAP/HOLD key to access the various pages
been saved with and not be affected by global or song probability changes.
described below:
1. Choose the USB MIDI channel from 1-16, All or Out (The Output setting Flam Preference Options:
follows the USB MIDI OUT setting in the next step below) for the incoming
1. Song, where all patterns flam settings will follow the flam setting within
USB MIDI IN port.
that song, even if a different flam setting is stored within a pattern.
2. Select the USB MIDI OUT channel from 1-16.
2. Pattern, where all patterns will play with the flam settings they have been
3. Turn on FORWARD TO MIDI sends the USB MIDI output of the unit to the saved with and not be affected by song flam changes.
MIDI OUT.
Analog Clock Modes
NOTE: Care should be taken with Forward to MIDI/USB settings when both MIDI
and USB interfaces are connected to the same computer, as there is a possibility PPQ (Pulses Per Quarter) is the smallest unit of time used for sequencing note
of data loops occurring. and automation events, both by step sequencers and in the MIDI standard. Most
MIDI sequencers allow the number of PPQ to be varied for more or less temporal
11.3 CLOCK resolution depending on the needs of the performer. The default is 24 PPQ, as
this is the most commonly used setting.
To enter the CLOCK settings page press SETTINGS, select CLOCK (Step key 3) and
use the TAP/HOLD key to access the various pages described below: This function allows communication with various analogue clock types as
listed below:
Tempo Preference
Clock Settings
Swing Preference 1 PPS
Probability Preference 1 PPQ
2 PPQ
Flam Preference
4 PPQ
Analog Clock Mode 24 PPQ
48 PPQ
Tempo Preference Options:
1. Global, where all patterns play at the set tempo, even if a different tempo is Note: 1PPS advance’s one sequencer step when one pulse is received.
stored within a pattern or song. When working in 1PPS mode, your slave machine can advance one (and only one)
sequencer step when receiving one pulse. Different step size can affect how the
2. Song, where all patterns within in a song will follow the tempo set within
BPM be calculated.
that song, even if a different tempo is stored within a pattern.
Working with 1/8 step size, 2 steps are equal to 1 beat, but working with
3. Pattern, where all patterns will play at the tempo they have been saved with
1/16 step size, 4 steps are equal to 1 beat, so the BPM number will be
and not be affected by global or song tempo changes.
displayed differently in this mode on.
15 RD-8 MKII User Manual

11.4 MAP Auto Advance Preference

The map function allows you to change the MIDI notes that trigger the RD-8 MKII Set the Auto Advance Globally or by Song.
voices either via the USB or MIDI ports.
Auto Scroll Preference
The default numbers are listed in the table below.
Voice MIDI Note No.
Set the Auto Scroll function Globally or by Pattern.
Bass Drum 36
Bus Send Preference
Snare Drum 40
Low Tom/Low Conga 45 Set the bus send to Filter and Wave Designer Globally, by Song or by Pattern
Mid Tom/Mid Conga 47
Hi Tom/Hi Conga 50 Mute Preference
Rim Shot/Claves 37 Set the mute control preference Globally, by Song or by Pattern
Clap/Maracas 39
Cowbell 56 Solo Preference
Cymbal 51
Open Hat 46
Set the solo control preference Globally, by Song or by Pattern
Closed Hat 42
11.6 FILTER
To enter the MAP settings page press SETTINGS, select MAP (STEP BUTTON 4) and
The filter CUTOFF knob setting can be recorded as automation and programmed
use the SELECT key for each voice to view the current MIDI note number. The DATA
into a pattern to create sweeping textures and effects as described in section 10.
knob can be used to adjust the number from 0-127.
The MIDI map is set globally and is the same for all songs and patterns. 11.7 POLY (Polymetric)
Note: with POLY mode ON, step repeat does not function, and the white play
11.5 PREFS head LED is disabled.
To enter the PREFS settings page press SETTINGS, select PREFS (Step key 5) and
Polymeter (poly) is the simultaneous use of two or more conflicting rhythms. In
use the DATA knob to adjust the various settings.
this unit, it is possible to change the number of steps played back per voice to
create interesting overlapping rhythms. For example, 16 steps of Bass Drum can
Chain Songs
be played while 15 steps of Snare which will make the pattern evolve over time.
The Chain function allows you to link together songs. PREFS has three options: It really must be experimented with to hear its full potential.
• Loop – Causes selected song to loop from beginning to end until the STOP Each of the 12 voices can be set to a different Polymeter which will work across all
button is pressed. Pressing the PLAY/PAUSE button will cause the next 64 steps of a pattern. This lets you create large evolving percussive patterns that
selected song to start from the beginning. can evolve over time.
• Hold – Causes the last bar of the selected song to repeat until stop is To enter Poly Mode:
pressed. Pressing the PLAY/PAUSE button will cause the next selected song
1. Press SETTINGS.
to start from the beginning.
2. Press POLY (STEP BUTTON 7).
• Stop – The selected song will run from beginning to end, then stop at the
end of the last bar. Pressing the PLAY/PAUSE will cause the next selected 3. Use the DATA control to activate Poly Mode.
song to start from the beginning.
4. Select the voice you wish to reduce the number of steps (this is none
Note that the above preferences are over-ridden when chaining songs destructive).
(see section 8).
5. All the step LED’s will illuminate to show the current status of the selected
voices Polymeter settings.
Filter HPF Preference
6. Select the step key you wish to use to reduce the pattern playback. If a
Set the HPF on/off state Globally, by Song or by Pattern.
pattern is 32, 48, or 64 steps long use the <</>> keys to navigate to the
step you wish to use.
Filter Io Preference
7. Flashing LEDs indicate any steps that will not be triggered.
Set the Filters on/off state Globally, by Song or by Pattern.
8. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.
Filter Auto Preference
To return to normal pattern playback turn poly mode off or press the step key
Set the filters Automation state Globally, by Song or by Pattern. This determines which is the end of the chosen pattern length i.e. 16, 32, 48 or 64 steps.
how the filter uses recorded filter automation information.
If you are using Poly mode with a pattern containing more than 16 steps then
all voices which are playing every step, including accent, must have all the used
Poly Preference
steps selected with poly mode on in order that the pattern plays correctly.
Set the Poly loop function to be controlled Globally, by Song or by Pattern (See
For example, if you have a pattern programmed of 32 steps. Setting poly
section 11.7 for more information on polymetric patterns).
mode On a voice, then setting the range to 48 steps, then setting all the other
voices to poly mode on and to the length of the pattern (in this case 32) will
Step Size Preference
result in the last 16 steps of the voice set to 48 steps being silent if nothing has
Set the Step Size to be controlled Globally, by Song or by Pattern. been programmed there (you could also fill the last 16 steps for more sonic
interest). If you don't set your non-Poly voices to the nominal pattern length the
pattern will only loop the first 16 steps.
16 RD-8 MKII User Manual

Please note that individual voices can have Poly lengths that are longer than the 4. Use the step keys (1-64 via length navigation arrows) to enable flam on the
nominal pattern length, for extra rhythmic variation. steps you require.
POLY mode defaults to be stored per pattern. 5. Adjust the flam range with the DATA control to taste
(0 = No Flam. 24 = Longest flam length).
11.8 RAND (Random) 6. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.
This function allows randomly played sounds to trigger on a pre-selected group
The global setting can also be changed by selecting FLAM with the DATA MODE
of voices on any pre-programmed step that you wish to have the ability to hear
button and using the DATA knob to adjust the flam length between hits.
random voices triggering. This can be used to create indiscriminate variations
into patterns, for example, random tom fills. FLAM programmed steps are shown in white and adding FLAM on a step
turns it red.
To add to a pattern:
1. Press SETTINGS. 11.11 RPT (Note repeat)
2. Press RAND (STEP BUTTON 8). Note repeat lets you program a step to repeat either 1,2,4 or 8 times. This can
be used to add extra ratchet style rolls to voices on a pre-defined step (1-64)
3. Pick the voices you want with the SELECT buttons.
by completing the following:
4. Use the step keys (1-64 via length navigation) to apply the random action on
1. Press SETTINGS.
the steps you require.
2. Press RPT (step key 11).
5. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.
3. Select the voice to which you wish to add repeats.
NOTE: Random step settings are stored on a per pattern basis.
4. Select the step key (1-64 via length navigation arrows) to enable repeat on
11.9 PROB (Probability) that step. Each step in a pattern can have a different repeat value.
The PROB setting allows you to adjust the probability of predefined steps playing 5. Select the number of repeats (1,2,4 or 8).
as programmed. This Probability function is great for adding a human feel to
6. Turn on the repeat with the NOTE REPEAT button.
patterns by settings how likely a programmed note will play. This simulates how
a drummer could miss playing a drum. 7. Select the next step to add more repeats or press SETTINGS twice to exit.
The range can be set from 0% to 100%. As a guide 0% means a programmed Note repeats can recorded 'live into a pattern when in step record mode. Select
voice won’t trigger, 50% allows voices to be played around half of the time, the repeat amount 1,2,4 or 8 with Note Repeat on. Use the trigger while in
while 100% will trigger the voice as programmed. Step Record to record the Note Repeat information. To remove the note repeat,
remove the programmed voice step.
By default, all steps in a pattern are not enabled to be controlled by the
PROB setting. Note repeat can also be programmed:
1. Press SETTINGS. • Step 1: enable note repeat and select a repeat number in STEP mode.
2. Press PROB (STEP BUTTON 9). • Step 2: select any voice you want.
3. Select the voice you wish to give probability to. • Step 3: hold STEP number button then press TRIGGER.
4. Use the step keys and length navigation arrows to enable probability on the Note repeat can be added with or without step record on with this method.
steps (up to 64 steps) you require.
5. Adjust the probability range with the DATA control to taste (0% causes
11.12 Step Size Preference
the voice to not trigger where as 100% signifies the voice will trigger The step size of a rhythm pattern refers to the note duration of a step.
as programmed). When composing rhythms, the basic unit of duration (in time) is a 'bar'. The step
sizes you can choose on your RD-8 MKII are 1/8, 1/8T, 1/16. 1/16T, and 1/32.
6. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.
If you choose the step size 1/16, the duration of a single step is 1/16th of a bar.
Probability step settings are stored per pattern, but the amount (0%-100%)
This means that a 16 step pattern has a duration of exactly one bar.
is controlled globally.
The durations are as follows:
PROB programmed steps are shown in white and adding PROB on a step turns it red.
• 1/8 = 1/8th bar.
11.10 FLAM • 1/8T = 1/12th bar
Flam is the simulated effect of a drummer hitting a note with 2 sticks.
• 1/16 = 1//16th bar (default)
The amount of flam dictates the length of time between the next hit after the
first. Range from 0-24 adjusts the width of the flam and is set globally. • 1/16T = 1/24th bar
By default, all steps in a pattern are not enabled to be controlled by the • 1/32 = 1/32th bar
FLAM setting. Flam can be turned on and off per step as described below:
To change the step size preference:
1. Press SETTINGS.
1. Press SETTINGS
2. Press FLAM (STEP BUTTON 10).
2. Press the STEP BUTTON associated with the step size you require
3. Select the voice you wish to add flam on. (1/8, 1/8T, 1/16, 1/16T or 1/32).
3. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.
17 RD-8 MKII User Manual

11.13 SYNC 12. Software Updates

The RD-8 MKII updater can be downloaded by going to www.musictribe.com.
Please follow the steps on the website and updater to update your RD-8 MKII.
To check the current firmware version:
Pressing the SYNC button multiple times scrolls through the 4 Sync
1. Press SETTINGS.
option available.
2. While holding the TAP/HOLD button press CHAIN/PREFS (STEP BUTTON 5).
1. INT (internal) – The sync is set by the unit’s internal clock.
3. The LCD will display the firmware version.
2. MIDI – The sync is taken from the MIDI IN port. A MIDI start message is
required in order for playback to start. 4. Press SETTINGS to exit.
3. USB – The sync is taken from the USB port. A message is required in order It is possible to perform a full factory reset by following these steps, please note
for playback to start. this clears all songs, settings and pattern data and is not reversable.
4. TRIG (clock) – The sync is taken from the SYNC IN port. Clock start signal is To reset to default factory settings:
required or playback can be started manually. (Sync In jack has start / stop
1. Press settings.
signal on ring and clock on tip).
2. Hold Tap/Hold and press step key 16
11.14 DATA MODE 3. The display will now say Wait.
The DATA MODE button toggles between the four available parameters and uses
4. When the factory reset is complete the display will show Done.
the DATA control to adjust parameters:
5. Now turn the unit on and off to complete the procedure.
(1) (2) (3) (4) NOTE: After updating from firmware 1.3.5 to version V2.0.2 or higher
The SYNTHTRIBE App can be used for future updates. This means DFU mode
(the small boot button next to the USB socket) will no longer be required to be
pressed. Instructions for updating with the SYNTHTRIBE can be found in the
firmware release notes.
The RD-8 MKII Windows Driver Installation document is available on the
Behringer website if you are having issues with PC drivers. This document will
guide you through the installation process.

1. TEMPO – changes pattern step timings by quantizing each drum beat to

the nearest step and then delaying the playback of every other step in the
pattern. The DATA control adjusts the Swing range from 25% negative swing
to 50% (straight), then on to 75% (Full Swing).
2. SWING – changes pattern step timings by quantizing each drum beat to
the nearest step and then delaying the playback of every other step in the
pattern. The DATA control adjusts the Swing range from 25% negative swing
to 50% (straight), then on to 75% (Full Swing).
3. PROB (probability) – In PROB settings menu you can select the steps as
described earlier in this manual. The global settings allow you to adjust
the probability that these steps will play programmed note events. This is
a number can be set anywhere in between 0%-100% range to simulate a
human element to patterns.
4. FLAM – Part of a pattern of RD-8 MKII, consisting of a stroke preceded by a
grace note. Range 0-24 adjust the width of the flam. Flam is the simulated
effect of a drummer hitting a note with 2 sticks. The amount of flam
dictates the length of time between the next hit after the first and can be
programmed per step.

11.15 TRIGGER ASSIGN

Trigger out 1 & 2 can be assigned to any voice. Trigger 3 is tied to Accent.
To access the TRIGGER ASSIGN settings press SETTINGS, holding TAP/HOLD, then
press STEP 7 to enter the settings menu, press TAP/HOLD to switch between
trigger assign 1 and 2. Use any Voice Select button to send to the target trigger
output (solid Light when selected).
18 RD-8 MKII User Manual

13. Parameters Preferences

There are three different types of data files used by the RD-8 MKII. The contents In addition to the Settings described above, there are a number of Preferences
of these file types are described herein. that can be used to specify whether certain sequencer parameters will persist
on a Global, Song or Pattern basis. Just like the Settings, the Preferences in the
Global Settings File Global Settings file are automatically saved back to Storage Memory whenever
they are changed.
All of the RD-8 MKII’s Settings and Preferences are stored in the Global Settings
file. This file is loaded from Storage Memory when the unit is powered on. The Preference Name Description Value
exact contents of the file are described below: This preference selects which Tempo 0 = Song,
Tempo Preference parameter is used by the sequencer; Global 1 = Global,
Tempo, Song Tempo or Pattern Tempo. 2 = Pattern
Settings
This preference selects which Swing parameter 0 = Song,
Settings in the Global Settings file are automatically saved back to Storage Swing Preference is used by the sequencer; Global Swing, Song 1 = Global,
Memory whenever they are changed. Swing or Pattern Swing. 2 = Pattern
This preference selects which Probability
Setting Name Description Value 0 = Song,
Probability parameter is used by the sequencer; Global
1 = Global,
From time to time, new versions of the Preference Probability, Song Probability or Pattern
2 = Pattern
RD-8 MKII firmware will be released. This Probability.
firmware will contain both bug fixes and new This preference selects which Flam parameter 0 = Song,
features. Additional parameters may be added Flam Preference is used by the sequencer; Global Flam, Song 1 = Global,
Data Version
to the Global Settings Data file to support Flam or Pattern Flam. 2 = Pattern
those new features. The Global Settings
This preference selects which Filter Mode 0 = Song,
Data file is therefore versioned to guarantee Filter Mode
parameter is used to set the mode RD-8 MKII’s 1 = Global,
compatibility between firmware releases. Preference
Analog Filter. 2 = Pattern
The RD-8 MKII is one of a number of Behringer
This preference selects which Filter Enable 0 = Song,
products that sequence songs. This parameter Filter Enable
Product Variant parameter is used to enable or disable by the 1 = Global,
is used to distinguish between RD-8 MKII Song Preference
Analog Filter on the RD-8 MKII’s FX bus.. 2 = Pattern
Data files and other song data files.
This preference selects which Filter
Each time a song is loaded into the sequencer it
Automation parameter is used by the 0 = Song,
is logged. When you power on the unit, the last Filter Automation
Last Loaded Song 1 – 16 sequencer. It also selects which set of Filter 1 = Global,
song to be logged before the unit was powered Preference
Step Values are used when the automation 2 = Pattern
off will be loaded back into the sequencer.
is active.
Each time a pattern is loaded in the sequencer
0 = Song,
it is logged. When you power on the unit, This preference selects which Polymeter
Polymeter Preference 1 = Global,
Last Loaded Pattern the last pattern to be logged before the unit 1 – 16 parameter is used by the sequencer.
2 = Pattern
was powered of will be loaded back into the
sequencer. 0 = Song,
This preference selects which Step Size
Step Size Preference 1 = Global,
Each RD unit in a system can have its own parameter is used by the sequencer.
Device ID 1 – 16 2 = Pattern
unique ID number.
This preference selects which Auto-Advance
Press Sync to cycle through the 4 clock parameter is used by the sequencer.
Clock Source INT, MIDI, USB or CLK Auto-Advance 0 = Song,
source options. Auto-Advance is a function of a Song but not of
Preference 1 = Global
Choose the type of clock that the clock a Pattern. This preference is therefore limited
Analog Clock Mode 1, 2, 4, 24 and 48PP to Song and Global.
input follows.
MIDI RX Channel Set the MIDI in receive channel. 1 – 16 This preference selects which Auto-Scroll
parameter is used by the sequencer.
MIDI TX Channel Set the MIDI out transmit channel. 1 – 16 Auto-Scroll 1 = Global,
Auto-Scroll is a function of a Pattern but not of
Preference 2 = Pattern
MIDI to USB Thru Set MIDI in to send to USB Thru. On/Off a Song. This preference is therefore limited to
MIDI Soft Thru Send all MIDI in Data to the MIDI out port. On/Off Pattern and Global.
USB RX Channel Set the USB MIDI receive channel. 1 – 16 This preference selects which set FX Bus 0 = Song,
FX Bus Preference assignments are used to send to voices to 1 = Global,
USB TX Channel Set the USB MIDI transmit channel. 1 – 16 the FX Bus. 2 = Pattern
USB to MIDI Thru Send the USB MIDI in to the MIDI thru port. On/Off This preference selects which set of Mute 0 = Song,
Voice Note Mappings Voice MIDI note map. Mute Preference Bus assignments are used to mute the 1 = Global,
various
(1 - 11) Can be changes from the default if desired. RD-8 MKII’s voices. 2 = Pattern
0 – Hold, This preference selects which set of Solo Bus 0 = Song,
Song Chain Mode Chain songs together for live performance. 1 – Loop, Solo Preference assignments are used to solo the RD-8 MKII’s 1 = Global,
2 – Stop voices. 2 = Pattern
1 – Bass Drum,
2 – Snare Drum,
3 – LOW TOM,
4 – MID TOM,
5 – HI TOM,
Trigger Out Assign1 Set the trigger out to follow which voice 6 – RIM SHOT,
7 – HAND CLAP
8 – COW BELL,
9 – CYMBAL,
10 – OPEN HAT,
11 – CLOSED HAT
Same with Trigger
Trigger Out Assign2 Set the trigger out to follow which voice
Out Assign1
19 RD-8 MKII User Manual

Global Parameters Song Arrangement

The RD-8 MKII has many parameters that can be tweaked to make your All of the data in a song arrangement is contained in its Song Data file. These data
rhythm’s more interesting. The Global Settings file contains the following list of is shown below:
parameters. When these parameters are in use (i.e. the corresponding Preference Parameter Name Description Values
is set to Global), they remain fixed, even when new Songs and Patterns are From time to time, new versions of the
loaded into the sequencer. As is the case for the Settings and Preference, Global RD-8 MKII firmware will be released. This
Parameters are automatically saved back to Storage Memory whenever they are firmware will contain both bug fixes and
changed. new features. Additional parameters may be
Song Data Version
added to the Song Data file to support those
Preference Name Description Value new features. The Song Data file is therefore
Sets the tempo globally if global mode versioned to guarantee compatibility between
Global Tempo 20 – 240 BPM firmware releases.
preference is selected.
Sets the Swing value globally if global mode The RD-8 MKII is part of a series of Behringer
Global Swing 25% to 75% products that sequence songs. This parameter
preference is selected. Product Variant
is used to distinguish between RD-8 MKII Song
Sets the probability a sound will play globally Data files and other song data files.
Global Probability 0 – 100 %
if global mode preference is selected.
A song arrangement can have up to 16 Song
Sets the flam length globally if global mode Song Sections Sections. Any of the 16 associated patterns can Pattern Number
Global Flam 0 - 24
preference is selected. (1 – 16) be loaded into a section. There is a parameter (0 – 15)
Sets the filter to LPF or HPF globally if global 0 = LPF, for each section.
Global Filter Mode
mode preference is selected. 1 = HPF When a pattern is loaded into a Song Section it
Pattern Repeats No. of Repeats
Sets the filter on/off globally if global mode 0 = Off, can be repeated a number of times. There is a
Global Filter Enable (1 – 16) (1 - 100)
preference is selected. 1 = On parameter for each section.
Global Filter Turns filter automation on/off globally if global 0 = Inactive, When Song Chaining is turned on, another
Automation mode preference is selected. 1 = Active Next Song song can be automatically cued to play after Song No. (0 – 15)
Global Filter the Live Song has finished.
Sets the filter level per step globally if global
Step Values 0 – 255
mode preference is selected.
(1 - 64) Song Parameters
Turn polymeter on/off globally if global mode 0 = Off,
Global Polymeter
preference is selected. 1 = On Some of the parameters in the Song Data file are comparable to the Global
0 = 1/8th,
Parameters. When these parameters are in use (i.e. the corresponding Preference
1 = 1/8th Tr, is set to Song), loading a new song will trigger the corresponding change in the
Sets the Step size globally if global mode
Global Step Size
preference is selected.
2 = 1/16th, sequencer. A tempo change is one such example.
3 = 1/16th Tr,
4 = 1/32ndth Parameter Name Description Values
Sets whether a song will advance to the next Tempo The tempo of the song is stored. 20 – 240 BPM
0 = Off,
Global Auto-Advance song or not globally if global mode preference Swing The Swing level is stored. 25% to 75%
1 = On
is selected.
The probability of a step being heard is
Sets whether Auto Scroll is on/off globally if 0 = Off, Probability 0 – 100 %
Global Auto-Scroll stored per song.
global mode preference is selected. 1 = On
Flam The flam level is stored per song 0 - 24
Global FX Sets which voices are assigned to the FX bus 0 = Inactive,
Filter Mode is stored per song, 0 = LPF,
Assignments globally if global mode preference is selected. 1 = Active Filter Mode
either LPF or HPF. 1 = HPF
Global Mute Sets which voices are muted globally if global 0 = Inactive,
0 = Off,
Assignments mode preference is selected. 1 = Active Filter Enable Whether the filter is on/off per song.
1 = On
Global Solo Sets which voices are soloed globally if global 0 = Inactive,
0 = Inactive,
Assignments mode preference is selected. 1 = Active Filter Automation Automation of the filter is stored per song.
1 = Active
Filter Step Values
Song Data Files (1 - 64)
Filter step values per song are stored. 0 – 255

Each of the 16 songs stored in the RD-8 MKII’s Storage Memory has a Song Data Polymeter Polymeter is either on/off per song.
0 = Off,
1 = On
file. When a song is loaded into the sequencer from Storage Memory, this is the
file that is loaded. The song loaded into the sequencer at any given time is called 0 = 1/8th,
1 = 1/8th Tr,
the Live Song. Changes the user makes to the Live Song Data file do not persist, Step Size Step size is stored for the song. 2 = 1/16th,
the file must be saved back to the Storage Memory before another Song Data file 3 = 1/16th Tr,
is loaded. 4 = 1/32ndth
Whether or not the song will auto advance to 0 = Off,
Auto Advance
the next or not is stored per song. 1 = On
Whether or not the FX bus send is active or not, 0 = Inactive,
FX Bus Sends
stored per song. 1 = Active
0 = Inactive,
Mute Voices Which voices are muted, stored by song.
1 = Active
0 = Inactive,
Solo Voices Which voices are soloed, stored by song.
1 = Active
20 RD-8 MKII User Manual

Pattern Data Files Parameter Name Description Values

The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
Each of the 16 patterns associated with a song has its own Pattern Data file. Closed Hat Step of the Closed Hat track: Events include Step *See description
When a song is loaded from Storage Memory, these 16 Pattern Data files Values(1 - 64) On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
are loaded in addition to the Song Data file. These 16 patterns are called the Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
Live Patterns. Changes made to the Live Pattern Data files do not persist. The The sequencer events triggered on the 1 to 64
steps. Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob *See description
files must be saved back to the Storage Memory before another song and its Pattern Length
on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off. below
associated patterns are loaded. Step repeat size.
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
Pattern Data Accent Poly Length
of the Accent Poly track: Events include Step *See description
On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
All of the data in a pattern are contained in its Pattern Data file. The data is Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
shown below: The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
Bass Drum Poly of the Bass Drum Poly track: Events include *See description
Parameter Name Description Values Length Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, below
From time to time, new versions of the Step Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
RD-8 MKII firmware will be released. This The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
firmware will contain both bug fixes and new Snare Drum Poly of the Snare Drum Poly track: Events include *See description
features. Additional parameters may be added Length Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, below
Pattern Data Version
to the Pattern Data file to support those new Step Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
features. The Pattern Data file is therefore
versioned to guarantee compatibility between The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
firmware releases. of the Low Tom Poly track: Events include Step *See description
Low Tom Poly Length
On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
The RD-8 MKII is part of a series of Behringer Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
products that sequence songs. This parameter
Product Variant The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
is used to distinguish between RD-8 MKII
Pattern Data files and other pattern data files. of the Mid Tom Poly track: Events include Step *See description
Mid Tom Poly Length
On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
Accent Step Values of the Accent track: Events include Step On/Off, *See description
(1 - 64) Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat below The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
on/off. Step repeat size. of the Hi Tom Poly track: Events include Step *See description
Hi Tom Poly Length
On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
Bass Drum Step of the Bass Drum track: Events include Step *See description
Values (1 - 64) On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
Repeat on/off. Step repeat size. of the Rim Shot Poly track: Events include Step *See description
Rim Shot Poly Length
On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
Snare Drum Step of the Snare Drum track: Events include Step *See description
Values (1 - 64) On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
Repeat on/off. Step repeat size. Hand Clap Poly of the Hand Clap Poly track: Events include Step *See description
Length On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
Low Tom Step Values of the Low Tom track: Events include Step On/ *See description
(1 - 64) Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
Repeat on/off. Step repeat size. of the Cow Bell Poly track: Events include Step *See description
Cow Bell Poly Length
On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
Mid Tom Step Values of the Mid Tom track: Events include Step On/ *See description
(1 - 64) Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
Repeat on/off and Step repeat size. of the Cymbal Poly track: Events include Step *See description
Cymbal Poly Length
On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
Hi Tom Step Values of the Hi Tom track: Events include Step On/Off, *See description
(1 - 64) Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat below The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
on/off and Step repeat size. of the Open hat Poly track: Events include Step *See description
Open Hat Poly Length
On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
Rim Shot Step Values of the Rim Shot track: Events include Step On/ *See description
(1 - 64) Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
Repeat on/off and Step repeat size. Closed Hat Poly of the Closed Hat Poly track: Events include *See description
Length Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, below
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps Step Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
Hand Clap Step of the Hand Clap track: Events include Step On/ *See description
Values (1 - 64) Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
Repeat on/off and Step repeat size. of the Random track: Events include Step On/ *See description
Random On/Off
Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
Cow Bell Step Values of the Cow Bell track: Events include Step On/ *See description
(1 - 64) Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
Repeat on/off and Step repeat size. of the Random for the Accent – Hand Clap
Random Tracks *See description
track: Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps (Accent – Hand Clap) below
on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off and
Cymbal Step Values of the Cymbal track: Events include Step On/ *See description Step repeat size.
(1 - 64) Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
Repeat on/off and Step repeat size. The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
of the Random for the Cow Bell - Closed Hat
The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps Random Tracks (Cow *See description
track: Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob
Open Hat Step Values of the Open Hat track: Events include Step On/ *See description Bell – Closed Hat) below
on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off and
(1 - 64) Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below Step repeat size.
Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
21 RD-8 MKII User Manual

Parameter Name Description Values

The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps
Random Steps of the Random Steps track: Events include Step *See description
(1 – 64) On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step below
Repeat on/off and Step repeat size.
* Information useful for power users wishing to implement their own editors. Each of the 64 bytes in a track has
its bits set/cleared as follows:
Bit 0 STEP_BYTE_MASK_ON_OFF_BIT – 1=Step On, 0=Step Off
Bit 1 RESERVED – Reserved / Not used
Bit 2 STEP_BYTE_MASK_PROBABILITY_BIT – 1=Step On, 0=Step Off
Bit 3 STEP_BYTE_MASK_FLAM_BIT – 1=Step On, 0=Step Off
Bit 4 STEP_BYTE_MASK_NOTE_REPEAT_ON_OFF_BIT – 1=Step On, 0=Step Off
Bit 5 STEP_BYTE_MASK_NOTE_REPEAT_LS_BIT 00 = Repeat 1, 01 = Repeat 2, 10 = Repeat 4,
11 = Repeat 8
Bit 6 STEP_BYTE_MASK_NOTE_REPEAT_MS_BIT 00 = Repeat 1, 01 = Repeat 2, 10 = Repeat 4,
11 = Repeat 8
Bit 7 RESERVED

Pattern Parameters
Some of the parameters in the Pattern Data file are comparable to the Global
Parameters. When these parameters are in use (i.e. the corresponding
Preference is set to Pattern), selecting a new pattern for playback will trigger
the corresponding change in the sequencer. A change to the Step Size is one
such example.
Parameter Name Description Values
Tempo The tempo of the song is stored. 20 – 240 BPM
Swing The Swing level is stored. 25% to 75%
The probability of a step being heard is
Probability 0 – 100 %
stored per song.
Flam The flam level is stored per song 0 - 24
Filter Mode is stored per song, 0 = LPF,
Filter Mode
either LPF or HPF. 1 = HPF
0 = Off,
Filter Enable Whether the filter is on/off per song.
1 = On
0 = Inactive,
Filter Automation Automation of the filter is stored per song.
1 = Active
Filter Step Values
Filter step values per song are stored. 0 – 255
(1 - 64)
0 = Off,
Polymeter Polymeter is either on/off per song.
1 = On
0 = 1/8th,
1 = 1/8th Tr,
Step Size Step size is stored for the song. 2 = 1/16th,
3 = 1/16th Tr,
4 = 1/32ndth
Whether or not the song will auto advance to 0 = Off,
Auto Advance
the next or not is stored per song. 1 = On
Whether or not the FX bus send is active or not, 0 = Inactive,
FX Bus Sends
stored per song. 1 = Active
0 = Inactive,
Mute Voices Which voices are muted, stored by song.
1 = Active
0 = Inactive,
Solo Voices Which voices are soloed, stored by song.
1 = Active
22 RD-8 MKII User Manual

14. New Features Overview New features in V2.0.6.

New features are detailed here for a quick view of added functions. - In STEP mode, hold TAP/HOLD then press RECORD to set pattern
auto save on or off.
New features in V2.0.2 - Pattern length menu displayed in SONG and PATTERN mode.
1. SYNTHTRIBE support. (right click on a step cell in the sequencer page for - Push LENGTH, then hold TAP/HOLD and push >> (right double arrow
more step options). beside LENGTH) to immediately duplicate the contents of the current
2. Pattern length, step on/off will be saved automatically when programmed length, this is very useful when you are working with for example a 3/4
in RECORD mode. pattern with 12 steps.
3. Trigger/play sound by pressing corresponding voice button. With TAP/HOLD - When STEP RECORD is enabled, the display shows "auto" or "manu"
button held the voice will be triggered with accent on. for 1 second to indicate the save mode.
4. Note repeat real time recording (press TRIGGER with note repeat enabled - Recall stored pattern by holding TAP/HOLD + STEP button of the pattern
when in STEP recording). Removing step will remove note repeat. you wish to restore. This only works when you are in Pattern mode and set
5. In PATTERN mode, copy currently selected pattern to other locations by to manu (manual) save mode.
holding COPY then pressing the STEP button of the destination you want.
6. In STEP MODE, copy page 1 (1-16), page 2 (17-32), page 3 (33-48) or page 4 New features in V2.1.2.
(49-64) to other pages: 1) Press LENGTH to enter pattern length setting.
2) select a page using arrows and press COPY, 3) select another page then Instant pattern switching - hold pattern and select next pattern.
press SAVE. This is will be automatically saved to the pattern.
• Added 1PPS support.
7. TRIGGER ASSIGN setting (press SETTINGS, holding TAP/HOLD then press STEP
7 to enter the settings menu, press TAP/HOLD to switch between trigger • Negative swing, 25-49%.
assign 1 and 2). Select any voice as trigger (solid Light when selected). • Filter automation will now carry across when extending / copying
Accent is tied to trigger 3
8. PROB and FLAM set to off as default, set tempo, swing and step size PREFS to • lengths of patterns.
pattern as default. • Note repeat is now easier to program:
9. Screen dim level adjustment (holding TAP/HOLD then turn DATA knob). • Step 1: enable note repeat and select a repeat number in STEP mode.
10. Hold TAP/HOLD and press MUTE or SOLO to clear all mutes or solos.
• Step 2: select any voice you want.
New features in V2.0.4 • Step 3: hold STEP number button then press TRIGGER.
1. Lights off for the disabled voice of MUTE/SOLO/BUS SEND, when enabled Note repeat can be added with or without step record on with this method.
they turn to solid red/white/pink
• In pattern Mode, all patterns with stored pattern data are white, current
2. Set step off steps to on when in note repeat live recording active is red (You can see which patterns are programmed).
3. Use the 4 red LEDs (1, 2, 4, 8) above the note repeat buttons to show which
note repeat value is recorded on a step depending on the voice selected • Autofill all 16 patterns (expanded from the last 4 only)
4. Add sweep erase function, when playing in STEP MODE, hold TAP/HOLD then • Flam will now have an effect on the closed hat.
press voice button to remove steps from pattern. • AUTO ADVANCE, if the PREFS set to song or pattern, AUTO ADVANCE will be
5. When in STEP RECORD mode, hold ERASE then press voice button to delete loaded normally, if the PREFS set to global, it is disabled when loading an
all steps of the voice in pattern. empty song.
6. Support pattern changing to different songs while playing. • FLAM & PROB Settings: Programmed steps are now shown in white and
1. Enter SONG MODE. adding FLAM or PROB on a step turns red.
2. Hold TAP/HOLD button. • POLY mode defaults to be stored per pattern.
3. Select Song with step button (1-16) to go to after current pattern Note: with POLY mode ON, step repeat does not function, and the white play
has finished. head LED is disabled.
4. The song step button you selected will flash white and the others will
flash red, now select a pattern.
5. When pattern is selected, the button will fast flash red until the selected
song and pattern starts.
Note: this will break the song chain playing.
7. Auto save the chain song: in SONG mode with record enabled, press step
button to select a chain song for current song, the chain song will
be auto saved.
8. Support step size changing while playing.
23 RD-8 MKII User Manual
24 RD-8 MKII User Manual

15. RD-8 MKII Set-up Example

MIDI OUT

Connect a MIDI Device Studio Monitors

Audio Input

USB Out

USB In
BD Audio Output Mixer
Mono Audio Output

Trigger Output

Power
Adaptor Trigger Input Audio Output

Headphones

Synthesizer
25 RD-8 MKII User Manual

Studio Monitors

Audio Input

Audio Audio
Output Input

Mixer

Mono Output To Return Input Individual Voice Output

Power
Adaptor
26 RD-8 MKII User Manual

16. Specifications
Voices Analog Filter

Number of sounds 16 Type State variable, 12 dB slope

Type Analog Cutoff 10 Hz - 15 kHz, adjustable
Number of simultaneous voices 11 (12 including global accent) Resonance 0 - 10, adjustable
Sound Controls HPF button LPF / HPF mode, switchable
Accent Level On button On / off, switchable
Bass drum Level, tone, decay, tuning
Sync Section
Snare drum Level, tone, snappy
Mode selector Internal / MIDI / USB / TRIG, selectable
Low, mid, hi conga / Level, tuning, voice selection
low, mid, hi tom
Sequencer Section
Claves / rim shot Level, voice selection
Edit buttons Save, copy, erase and dump
Maracas / hand clap Level, offset, voice selection
Mode buttons Song, pattern and step
Cow bell Level
Control Encoder for data editing
Cymbal Level, tone, decay
Playback controls Tap / hold, record, stop, play / pause
Open hat Level, tone, decay
Data mode Tempo / swing / prob / flam, selectable
Closed hat Level, tone
Auto scroll On / off, rewind, length (16 / 32 / 48 /
Select buttons 16 Voice select buttons 64, selectable), fast forward
Connectivity Trigger On / off, repeat division (1 / 2 / 4 / 8,
selectable), step repeat, note repeat
Outputs
Track Mute / solo, selectable
Phones 1 x 1/4 TRS, stereo, 8 Ω impedance
Step buttons 16 step enter buttons
Mono 1 x 1/4 TRS, servo-balanced
Voice out 11 x 1/4 TS, unbalanced Settings

MIDI In, Out & Thru 3 x 5-pin DIN Settings Enter settings mode, use step buttons
to select operation.
Trigger outs 3 x +5 V, 1 ms pulse
Sync in / out 2 x 1/8 TS Autofill
USB Class compliant USB 2.0, type B
Autofill Enter autofill selection mode
Supported operating systems Windows 7 or higher
Mac OS X 10.6.8 or higher Songs / Storage
Volume controls Master, phones Song mode Chain any of the 16 songs together
Return (Input) 1 x 1/4 TRS, balanced for full sets

Wave Designer Pattern / Storage

Bus 11 voices, independently assignable Capacity 16 songs, 16 patterns each

Controls Pattern mode Up to 99 iterations per pattern/part
Attack -15 to +15 dB, adjustable Steps 64 steps
Sustain -24 to +24 dB, adjustable
Power Supply
Send button On/off, switchable
External power adapter 18 V DC, 1000 mA
Sig LED Red
Power consumption 15 W typical

Environmental

Operating temperature range 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F)

Physical

Dimensions (H x W x D) 77 x 498 x 265 mm (3.0 x 19.6 x 10.4)

Weight 3.0 kg (6.6 lbs)
27 RD-8 MKII User Manual

17. Glossary Harmonics: A series of integer-related sine waves at varying levels creating
different timbres. Waveforms (other than a pure sinusoidal) generate various
RD-8 MKII GLOSSARY harmonics which help define the character of the sound.
This glossary provides an explanation of useful symbols, terms and abbreviations. Hertz (Hz): A unit of frequency equal to one cycle of a wave per second.
AC: Alternating Current High Pass Filter (HPF): A filter that attenuates lower frequencies from a signal,
leaving the higher frequencies unaffected.
Analog: Something which is proportional or similar to something else. In the
case of the drum machine, audio electronic circuits are another form of air Hum: Undesirable low-frequency tone (typically 50 or 60 Hz) present in a signal
pressure waves. Analog signals contain distortions from the components, due to grounding problems or proximity to a power source or power cables.
topology, circuits and designs which are often perceived as warmer and more
Impedance (Z): Opposition to the flow of alternating current in a circuit,
natural than their digitally generated counterparts.
measured in Ohms.
Attack: Increase or decrease the initial transient of the signal.
Kilohertz (kHz): A unit of frequency equal to one thousand cycles of a wave
Auto Scroll: Follows the Playhead to show current step position. per second.
Balanced Audio: A type of audio connection that uses the three wires in a cable Latency: A delay introduced by processing. Measured by the time it takes to
as part of a phase-cancelling arrangement to boost the signal and reduce noise. produce a signal after a request has been made. In a synthesizer, it is the time
taken to produce a note after a key has been played. In an audio interface, it is
Bass: Lower frequencies in a signal ranging from 60 Hz to 250 Hz (Approximately
used to measure the time it takes for an input signal to reach the processor, or for
B1 to B3).
a signal from the processor to reach the output.
Beats Per Minute (BPM): Used to describe the tempo of a composition by
Level: Used to describe the magnitude of a sound, often relative to an
specifying the number of beats which should occur in every minute.
arbitrary reference.
Cent: Unit of measurement for pitch tuning. There are one hundred cents in
Length: Defines the number of steps in a pattern.
a semitone.
Line Level: A nominal operating level used by audio equipment. Professional
Chain: A function to link songs or pattern information together.
line level is normally +4 dBu and consumer line level is -10 dBu.
Control Voltage (CV): A voltage signal used to control any parameter. This was
Looping: Automatically restarting a function at the end of a period of time or
common on drum machines before the advent of MIDI.
defined cycle, to create a continuous loop.
Cut-Off Frequency: The frequency which a filter is set to. Beyond this frequency
Low Pass Filter (LPF): A filter that attenuates higher frequencies from a signal,
(in a low-pass filter, the most common), the sound is cut off (attenuated) at a rate
leaving the lower frequencies unaffected.
set by the slope of the filter response curve.
Map: How MIDI note numbers are assigned to voices.
dB: Symbol for decibel. A unit of measurement of the loudness of sound. See dBu.
Master: Overall volume control.
Default: An initial value for parameter, i.e., the value before any changes have
been made. Meter: Visual device to indicate the level of a signal.
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW): A computer-based recording system. MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface): A technical standard that
More commonly used to describe the software package used to record, process describes a protocol, digital interface and connectors and allows a wide variety of
and mix. electronic musical instruments, computers and other related hardware/software
devices to connect and communicate.
Dip Switch: A manual electric switch that is packaged with others in a group.
MIDI Clock: A clock signal which is broadcast over MIDI to ensure that devices are
Dump: To send (dump) the contents of the memory of the device over the MIDI
synchronized. Also known as MIDI Beat Clock or MIDI Timing Clock.
cables as SysEx information.
MIDI Message: Data or information transmitted from one MIDI device to
Flam: The simulated effect of a drummer hitting a note with 2 sticks.
another. Each MIDI message contains at least two numbers: one that identifies
The amount of flam dictates the length of time between the next hit after
the type of message being sent, and another which represents a value for the
the first.
selected type of message.
Filter: A device that attenuates certain frequencies while letting other
Midrange: Frequencies in a signal ranging from 250 Hz to 5 kHz
frequencies through. Using a filter to reduce harmonics, changes the timbre or
(Approximately B3 to D#8).
colour of the sound.
Mix: The balance of level between one signal and another.
Gain: The amount of signal level increase provided by an amplifier stage.
Mixer: A device that blends input signals into composite signals for output.
Gate (Synthesizer): A signal used to trigger an event, such as a note or
an envelope. Mode: The selection of song, pattern or step edit.
Gate (Dynamics): A device used to cut off the level of a signal when it falls Monitors: Studio quality loudspeakers, providing an accurate representation of
below a specified threshold. Can be used to cut background noise, control reverb the audio signals.
tails, or creatively to produce chopping type effects.
Mono: A single signal.
Global: The settings and parameters which govern the general operation of the
Mute: Function that allows a signal to be silenced.
drum machine and are not directly associated with the voice engines.
N/A: Abbreviation for not applicable or not available.
Ohm (Ω): Unit of electrical resistance.
28 RD-8 MKII User Manual

Output: The signal sent out by a device or process. Also used to describe the Timbre: The tone, character, or aesthetic qualities of a sound.
physical socket where a signal leaves a device.
Treble: Frequencies in a signal ranging from 5 kHz to 20 kHz (approximately D#8
Parameter: A setting whose value can be changed. The result is a sweeping to above C10).
effect similar to a flanger but smoother and often more natural sounding.
Trigger: Activation of a function, such as the Note Repeat or Step Repeat.
Pattern: A rhythmic pattern, or repeated rhythm establishing the meter and
Unbalanced Audio: A type of audio connection that uses two wires in a cable
groove through the pulse and subdivision
and does not offer the noise rejection qualities of a balanced system.
Pitch: A quality of sound that makes it possible to judge if a sound is higher or
Universal Serial Bus (USB): A plug and play interface that provides a fast
lower than another.
connection between a computer and peripherals.
Playhead: A moving white LED in the step timeline that represents the position
Volt (V): A unit of electrical potential differential or electromotive force.
in the pattern.
A difference in charge between two points in a circuit. This difference, when
Polymeter (Poly): The simultaneous use of two or more conflicting rhythms. combined with the rate of the charge (current) allows for the control of many
analog circuits that synthesize sound.
Post: The point for accessing audio just after it leaves a specific component or
stage. For example, Post-Fader audio is affected by the fader. Voice: A sound which can play a single note at a time.
Power Supply Unit (PSU): The component in a system which is responsible for
supplying and managing power.
PPQ: The smallest unit of time used for sequencing note and automation events,
both by step sequencers and in the MIDI standard.
Pre: The point for accessing audio just before it reaches a specific component or
stage. For example, Pre-Fader audio is not affected by the fader.
Probability (Prob): The extent to which a programmed step is likely to happen.
Random: Does not follow a definite plan or pattern.
Resonance: The emphasis/boost of frequencies around the cut-off point just
before attenuation starts to occur. As resonance increases, it will reach a point
where the filter will start to self-oscillate, producing a signal even when there is
no input.
Return: A way to add audio into the signal path after the FX bus.
Send: Select which sounds are sent to the FX bus for further processing.
Sequencer: A programmable device or module used to arrange/sequence timed
events into musical patterns and songs.
Sig (Signal): Shows presence of audio.
Step: A step is one stage in a sequence or pattern.
Solo: To isolate a chosen voice in playback.
Song: A collection of patterns played back in a predefined order.
Sub-Bass: Frequencies in a signal ranging from 10 Hz to 60 Hz (lower than C0 to
approximately B1).
Sustain: acts in a similar way to a compressor, allowing the peaks to carry
longer before decay. The effect can also be used to reduce the sustain for a more
staccato sound.
Swing: The Swing function as we now know it – originally known as ‘shuffle’, a
term still used to approximate the effect of a human drummer playing in swing
timing by quantizing each drum beat to the nearest step and then delaying the
playback of every other step in the pattern.
Synchronization (Sync): Coordination of timing between devices.
Sync (Tempo): A function where a cyclical event such as an LFO is synchronized
to a tempo value.
Tap: A way to enter step information.
Tempo: The speed at which a composition is played, usually expressed in beats
per minute (BPM).
29 RD-8 MKII User Manual

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS
COMMISSION COMPLIANCE
INFORMATION

RD-8 MKII

Responsible Party Name: Music Tribe Commercial NV Inc.

Address: 5270 Procyon Street,
Las Vegas NV 89118,
United States
Phone Number: +1 702 800 8290

RD-8 MKII8
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Important information:
Changes or modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by Music Tribe
can void the user’s authority to use the equipment.
We Hear You