Behringer RD-9: The TR-909 as a Rhythm Designer
· re:union Radio editorial · 3 min read
The Behringer RD-9 copies the Roland TR-909: 11 instruments, 16 songs with up to 16 patterns each, a 64-step sequencer, and individual outputs for every instrument.
The Behringer RD-9 is Behringer's recreation of the Roland TR-909, stepping in as a “Rhythm Designer” following the RD-8, which previously copied the TR-808. Layout, operating concept, and many functions are modeled after the 909, while the sequencer significantly surpasses the original.
At a glance
- 11 instruments with two velocity levels plus global attack – kick, snare, and toms analog, the rest sample-based
- 16 songs with up to 16 patterns each, which can be up to 64 steps long
- Individual outputs per instrument, MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB-MIDI, and Sync I/O
- Built-in multi-mode filter and Wave Designer (transient designer) in the common effect bus
Analog Drums, Digital Extras
The sound generation of the RD-9 is a hybrid: kick, snare, and toms operate analog, like the original, while the other instruments are sample-based. Each of the eleven instruments features two velocity levels as well as a global attack parameter; depending on the sound, Tune and Decay are additionally available, with the bass drum offering the most adjustment options. An Enhanced Mode adds some additional parameters compared to the 909 original, which can also be deactivated if desired.
16x16x64: A Sequencer with Depth
Instead of the rigid 16-step logic of the original, the RD-9 brings a significantly more modern sequencer: you can create 16 songs, each song holds up to 16 patterns, and each pattern can be up to 64 steps long. Tempo, swing, probability, and the intensity of flams are quickly accessible via the Data Mode button, encoder, and display. Selected steps can also be repeated with Note or Step Repeat in ratios from 1/1 to 1/8, and the step grid ranges from 1/8 to 1/32, including triplets. Particularly noteworthy is the polymetric mode: each instrument can have its own loop length, resulting in unusual polyrhythms.
Connections, Effects, and Operation
For studio and live integration, the RD-9 comes with individual outputs on large jacks for each instrument, plus MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB-MIDI, and Sync I/O on small jacks, including its own toggle button. A 6.3 mm mono main out with return allows you to grab individual signals from the sum via jack plug, process them externally, and loop them back in. Sonically, a switchable multi-mode filter (low-pass/high-pass with cutoff and resonance) and a Wave Designer for sustain shaping are available, both assignable to the instruments via a common effect bus. The filter can also be automated via the steps.
| Instruments | 11 (Kick, Snare, Toms analog, rest samples) |
|---|---|
| Sequencer | 16 songs, up to 16 patterns each, up to 64 steps |
| Additional Features | Probability, Flam, Note-/Step-Repeat, polymetric mode |
| Effects | Multi-Mode Filter (LP/HP), Wave Designer |
| Connections | Individual outputs, MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB-MIDI, Sync I/O, headphone output |
“The build quality is flawless, nothing wobbles. All 37 knobs turn smoothly, and the multitude of buttons feel and press well […] – Sonically, the RD-9 is largely a 909.”
If you use the RD-9 live later, you'll often combine it via Sync with mixers like the AlphaTheta DJM-V5 or integrate patterns into sets where Hot Cues and Beat Jump are already standard repertoire.
FAQ
Is the RD-9 completely analog?
No. Kick, snare, and toms are generated analog, while the other instruments are sample-based – a hybrid concept that comes close to the original sound but is not built identically.
How many patterns fit into a song?
A song holds up to 16 patterns, each of which can be up to 64 steps long. A total of 16 songs can be created.
Source: Bonedo, Felix Klostermann, technical description and practical test of the Behringer RD-9.
