A Creative Powerhouse: The SP-606 Story

The Roland SP-606 was the last "big" sampler groovebox in Roland's acclaimed SP series of phrase samplers, elevating the concept to a full "sampling workstation". Building on the legacy that began with the Boss SP202 in 1997, the SP-606 combines traditional phrase sampling capabilities with modern connectivity and enhanced functionality.

At its heart, the SP-606 features a distinctive 4x4 grid of velocity-sensitive, backlit sample trigger pads that have become iconic in Roland's product lineup. These 16 pads provide access to stored samples across eight pad banks (expandable to 32 with Compact Flash), allowing for up to 128 samples in basic configuration or 512 samples with optional memory expansion.

The unit serves multiple roles in a modern studio setup, functioning not only as a standalone sampling workstation but also as a USB-based audio and MIDI interface for both Mac and PC systems. PC users benefit from an exclusive partnership with Cakewalk through the included P606 loop-based software studio, which integrates seamlessly with the hardware for enhanced creative possibilities.

Sample recording capabilities include both mono and stereo options at two quality grades: Standard (providing 5 minutes mono sampling time) and Long mode (offering 11 minutes with compression). The SP-606 uses its own proprietary format, roughly equivalent to 16MB of memory, with samples retained in memory when powered off through proper shutdown procedures.

The built-in sequencer offers four tracks with pattern-based operation, capable of recording up to 18,000 sample triggers at 96ppqn resolution. Users can create up to 140 patterns (each up to 32 bars long) and chain up to 999 patterns into 25 different songs, following Roland's established workflow conventions.

Effects processing includes two main processors with 45 effect types, plus a sophisticated mastering compressor with dual-band operation. The effects range from standard reverbs and delays to modeled COSM examples, vintage vinyl simulation, and creative slice effects. Additionally, the unit includes synthesizer capabilities through both the effects section and the innovative D-Beam hands-free controller.

Sample editing features include basic truncation and looping capabilities, though limited by the small 128x64-dot display. The system supports various trigger modes (One-shot, Alternate, Gate), reverse playback, and sample chopping functionality that can divide samples into up to 16 segments across different pads.

Connectivity options are comprehensive, featuring traditional five-pin MIDI In/Out, analog audio inputs (line/mic), stereo line outputs, headphone output, coaxial S/PDIF digital I/O, USB connection, and programmable footswitch input. The USB connection enables the unit to function as a complete audio/MIDI interface while also supporting Mass Storage mode for direct file transfer with Compact Flash cards.

Technical Specifications

Audio Specifications

• Maximum Polyphony: 8 voices
• Sampling Frequency: 44.1 kHz
• Data Format: SP-606 original format (WAV/AIFF import/export possible with Compact Flash)
• Maximum Sampling Time (Internal Memory):
  • Standard Grade: 5 minutes (mono), 2.5 minutes (stereo)
  • Long Grade: 11 minutes (mono), 5.5 minutes (stereo)
• Sampling Modes: Standard/Long
• Audio Inputs: Stereo line/mono mic inputs (L/MONO, R)
• Audio Outputs: Stereo line outputs (L/MONO, R)
• Digital I/O: Coaxial S/PDIF (IN/OUT)
• Headphone Output: 1/4" jack (rear-mounted)

Memory & Storage

• Internal Memory: 128 samples (8 banks × 16 pads)
• Card Memory (CompactFlash): 384 samples (24 banks × 16 pads)
• Maximum Card Capacity: 512MB
• Card Memory Sampling Time:
  • 16MB: 5 min (standard), 12 min (long)
  • 32MB: 12 min (standard), 24 min (long)
  • 64MB: 24 min (standard), 48 min (long)
  • 128MB: 48 min (standard), 96 min (long)
  • 256MB: 96 min (standard), 193 min (long)
  • 512MB: 193 min (standard), 386 min (long)

Sequencer Specifications

• Mode: Pattern, Song
• Tracks: 4
• Resolution: 96 ticks per quarter note
• Song Steps: 999
• Songs: 25
• Patterns: 140 (including pre-loaded patterns)
• Maximum Measures per Pattern: 32
• Beats: 2/4–32/4
• Tempo: 40.0–200.0
• Pattern Recording Method: Realtime, Step Recording (Note/Sample)
• Maximum Recordable Notes: Approximately 18,000 notes (approx. 8,000 per pattern)

Effects Section

• Multi-Effects: 2 systems, 45 types
• Mastering Effect: 2-bands Compressor
• Built-in Synthesizer: Oscillator + Envelope (accessible via effects)
• D-Beam Synthesizer: Separate synth engine with waveform selection, LFO, PWM

Control Interface

• Display: 128 × 64 dots (backlit graphic LCD)
• Controllers: Control knobs × 3, D-Beam
• Pads: 16 with velocity sensitivity
• Transport Controls: Standard play, stop, record controls

Connectivity

• MIDI: IN, OUT (5-pin DIN)
• USB: Compatible with MIDI, audio, and mass storage class
• Foot Switch: 1/4" jack
• Digital Audio Interfaces: Coaxial (IN/OUT)
• Power: DC 9V (AC Adaptor)
• Current Draw: 1,000 mA

Physical Specifications

• Dimensions: 358.3(W) × 271.2(D) × 84.0(H) mm / 14-1/8(W) × 10-11/16(D) × 3-5/16(H) inches
• Weight: 2.3 kg / 5 lbs 2 oz (excluding AC Adaptor)

Software Integration

• P606 System Requirements (PC Only):
  • Operating System: Microsoft Windows 2000/XP
  • CPU: Pentium-class, Pentium 4 1.7 GHz or higher recommended
  • Memory: 256 MB or more (512 MB or more recommended)
  • Display: 1024 × 768 pixels or higher
  • Hard Disk: 500 MB or more
  • USB Port required
  • CD-ROM Drive required for installation

Included Accessories

• Owner's Manual
• AC Adaptor (ACI Series or PSB-1U)
• USB Cable
• CD-ROM (Driver/Factory Data, P606)
• Card theft prevention cover

Optional Accessories

• Pedal Switch (DP-2)
• Foot Switch (Boss FS-5U)
• CompactFlash Cards (various capacities up to 512MB)

The Roland SP-606 is still a good choice if you search a digital sampling workstation designed for DJs and studio musicians who are nostalgic about old good days and "that workflow".