Roland Introduces EF-303 Groove Effects

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Roland is proud to debut the EF-303 Groove Effects, a highly functional table-top effects processor that gives DJs and electronic musicians an arsenal of powerful dance-music friendly effectsincluding a DSP synthesizer with Step Modulator. These effects can easily be integrated into live performance or studio applications, adding excitement to dance music styles ranging from techno to house, hip-hop, jungle, trance and beyond.

The EF-303s compact design makes it the perfect complement to DJ mixers without internal effects, or it can be used as a stand-alone processor for vocals, keyboards, or other musical instruments. A total of 16 effects algorithms include filters, flanger, phaser, delay, reverb, pitch shift and compression, plus popular Roland "groove" effects like Isolator, Slicer, Lo-Fi, Voice Transformer and more. Unlike many effects processors, the EF-303 is straightforward and very easy to use, with effects that are controllable in real time using four knobs, 16 sliders and a Grab switch.

The unique Step Modulator further sets the EF-303 apart, giving users a powerful tool that emulates a analog sequencer. Up to 16 events can be entered on the sequencer, allowing DJs to easily perform complex effects changes by programming them with the EF-303s sliders. The Step Modulator can also be used to control the built-in DSP synthesizer, letting users create analog-style bass lines, synth leads, rhythms or arpeggios.

Other useful features include an automatic BPM counter and MIDI Start/Stop controls, allowing for easy syncing of the EF-303s effects with vinyl, CDs and MIDI gear such as Roland Grooveboxes. A convenient Monitor Select function allows DJs to preview the effected sound in headphones, while onboard Patch memory can instantly recall effects and Step Modulator settings. Even better, all knobs and sliders transmit MIDI data, meaning the EF-303 can double as a handy MIDI controller and step sequencer as well.

Connections to the EF-303 include RCA-type line/phono inputs (L/R), a dedicated Mic input (1/4" phone), RCA-type line outputs (L/R), a stereo headphone jack (1/4" phone), and MIDI In/Out connectors.