The Roland MV-8000 is a digital production studio and sampler released in 2003. It is a powerful all-in-one production studio, combining a sampler, sequencer, effects, and a mixer in one unit. It is capable of recording and sequencing audio and MIDI data, as well as providing a wide range of effects and sound manipulation tools. The MV-8000 also includes a large library of sounds and samples, as well as the ability to load and save audio and MIDI files.

With Version 3.5, Roland enhanced the platform with additional recorder-like functions and expanded VGA capabilities through the MV8-VGA expansion board.

Core Features

• Integrated production environment with sampling, sequencing, and CD burning
• 16 velocity/aftertouch-sensitive pads
• Large monochrome LCD display with real-time control knobs
• Optional VGA monitor support with mouse control
• Built-in CD-RW drive and USB connectivity

Sampling System

• 16-bit/44.1kHz linear format
• 64-voice polyphony
• 128MB RAM (expandable to 256 or 512MB with replacing the DIMM)
• Recording time: 24 min mono/12 min stereo (128MB)
• Extended recording: 100 min mono/50 min stereo (512MB)
• 16 patch parts + 10 audio track/phrase parts

Sequencing

• 136-track capacity (128 MIDI + 8 stereo audio)
• 480 TPQN resolution
• 150,000 note storage
• Tempo range: 5-300 BPM
• Real-time/step recording modes
• Pattern-based and linear recording

Effects Processing

• Multi-effects processor (25 types)
• Dedicated chorus (2 types) and reverb (4 types)
• Mastering toolkit
• 3-band EQ for audio/instrument parts
• Automated effects control

Storage

• 40GB internal hard drive
• 3.5" floppy drive
• CD-RW drive for audio/data

Project Organization

• 16 songs per project
• 500 patterns
• 16 patches per song
• 96 partials (16 pads × 6 banks per patch)
• 9,999 sample capacity
• 512 audio phrases (16 pads × 32 banks)

File Compatibility

Import

• Audio CD
• WAV/AIFF (including ACID files)
• Roland S-700 series
• AKAI MPC2000/S1000/3000
• Standard MIDI Files (0/1)
• Image files (BMP/JPG)

Export

• Audio CD
• WAV/AIFF samples
• SMF format 1
• Project backups

Hardware Connectivity

• Stereo mic/line inputs
• Phono inputs
• Analog/digital master outputs
• Optional 6 additional outputs (MV8-OP-1)
• V-LINK support for Edirol video control

OS Version 3.5 Enhancements

• Audio track/mute automation
• Recordable effects control
• Enhanced EQ capabilities
• Improved piano roll editing
• Patch preview during import

Difference between the MV-8000 and the MV-8800

Audio Quality:

• MV-8800 adds 24-bit/96kHz audio interface capability (vs 16-bit/44.1kHz only)
• MV-8800 has improved AD/DA conversion (24-bit 64x/128x oversampling)

Display/Interface:

• MV-8800: Color LCD with icon-based interface
• MV-8000: Monochrome LCD

Sequencing:

• MV-8800: 128 MIDI + 8 Audio + Pattern/Tempo/Mute tracks
• MV-8000: 136 tracks total (128 MIDI + 8 stereo audio)

New Features in MV-8800:

• Real-time pitch/time manipulation
• Pre-installed Roland instrument emulations (TR-808, TR-909, etc.)
• More comprehensive mastering tools
• Enhanced mixer automation
• Expanded effects library with vintage emulations

Storage/Memory:

Same base specs:

• 128MB RAM (expandable to 512MB)
• 40GB hard drive
• CD-RW drive

The MV-8800 represents a significant upgrade in audio quality, interface design, and production capabilities while maintaining core hardware specifications.