Roland MC-4 MicroComposer System with 2x OP-8 Interfaces, MTR-100 and Flight Case

Exceptionally rare Roland MC-4 MicroComposer system, including:

• Roland MC-4 MicroComposer
• Two Roland OP-8 CV/DCB Interfaces
• Roland MTR-100 Digital Cassette Recorder
• Custom blue flight case housing the MC-4 and both OP-8 interfaces
• Custom-made DCB and ribbon cables for connection and testing

This is an extremely uncommon opportunity to acquire a substantial Roland MC-4 system together. The MC-4 itself rarely appears for sale, but it is considerably more unusual to find one accompanied by two OP-8 interfaces, the dedicated MTR-100 recorder, the necessary custom cables and a fitted flight case.

These components were originally sold separately, meaning that assembling an equivalent system today would require locating several individually rare pieces. The custom flight case also provides important protection for the MC-4 and OP-8 units during storage and transport.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Introduced during the early 1980s, the MC-4 is one of Roland’s most important pre-MIDI digital sequencers. Rather than using a modern piano-roll interface, musical notes, timing and gate information are entered numerically through its calculator-style keypad.

The MC-4 became closely associated with the precise, tightly sequenced sound of early electronic music and synth-pop. Its best-known users include Vince Clarke of Depeche Mode, Yazoo and Erasure, who used the MC-4 extensively with vintage CV-controlled synthesizers. He famously returned to the MC-4 when recording Erasure’s 1991 album Chorus.

The MC-4 has also been associated with artists including Kraftwerk, The Human League, Heaven 17, Giorgio Moroder, Yellow Magic Orchestra and Aphex Twin, among others. It remains highly sought after by collectors and musicians interested in the distinctive workflow, timing and character of early hardware sequencing.

CONDITION AND TESTING

All units power on correctly and operate from Australian 240V power.

The MC-4 starts normally, and its keypad, buttons and controls appear to respond as expected. However, due to the complexity of this system, I have not been able to carry out an exhaustive test of every input, output and function.

Properly testing an MC-4 system requires considerable knowledge of its operation, numerous cables and compatible synthesizers or drum machines. I have had custom DCB and ribbon cables made specifically so the system can be tested with equipment I own, including a Roland Juno-60, Roland SH-101 and Linn LM-2 drum machine.

For a serious prospective buyer, my strong preference would be to conduct a guided test before the purchase is finalised. This can be done either through an in-person inspection or by having the buyer guide me through their preferred testing procedure via FaceTime or video call.

This gives the buyer an opportunity to check the particular functions and connections that are most important to them and assess the system to their own standard.

If the buyer does not wish to arrange or participate in further testing, the system will be sold in its present, partially tested and as-is condition, based only on the functions specifically described above. I am not representing every function, input or output as having been fully tested or guaranteed.

PHYSICAL CONDITION

The physical and cosmetic condition of all components should be carefully observed in the supplied photographs, which form an important part of this listing and condition description.

This is a vintage system that has been stored for approximately 30 years, so there are signs of age, storage and previous use. Please inspect all photographs closely and form your own assessment of its cosmetic condition before purchasing.

If you require additional photographs of any particular unit, connection, panel, control, serial number, internal area or cosmetic detail, please contact me before purchasing. I will be happy to provide further photographs wherever reasonably possible.

Given the age and complexity of the equipment, it would be sensible for the new owner to anticipate that some servicing, calibration or other attention may eventually be required. This does not mean I am aware of a particular fault; it is simply an honest acknowledgement of what can reasonably be expected from a sophisticated vintage electronic system of this age.

I had genuinely hoped to dedicate the time and resources needed to fully learn, test and preserve this remarkable setup. Unfortunately, other life circumstances have made that impractical, which is the reason it is now being offered for sale.

In-person inspection and collection are strongly encouraged. Shipping can also be arranged, with the MC-4 and both OP-8 units protected inside their custom flight case.

Please contact me before purchasing if you have particular testing requirements, would like additional photographs, or wish to arrange an inspection or video demonstration.

Please note that the buyer will be responsible for all extra Taxes after they checkout. I will not accept responsibility to pay Tarriffs or any duties once i have sent the item. By purchasing, the buyer fully accepts that term.