User Manual

RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9

Classic Analog/Digital Drum Machine with 11 Drum Sounds,
64-Step Sequencer, Wave Designer and Dual-Mode Filter

V 1.0
2 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Table of Contents
Thank you........................................................................ 2 6. Playing a Pattern (Pattern Mode)............................ 13
Important Safety Instructions....................................... 3 7. C
 reating a Song (Pattern Chaining Mode) ............. 13
Legal Disclaimer.............................................................. 3 8. C
 reating a Song Chain
(Song Mode).............................................................. 14
Limited warranty............................................................. 3
9. Wave Designer.......................................................... 15
1. Introduction................................................................ 5
10. Analog Filter........................................................... 15
1.1 Before you get started....................................................... 5
11. Settings.................................................................... 16
1.1.1 Initial operation............................................................... 5
11.1 MIDI....................................................................................... 16
1.2 The product manual........................................................... 5
11.2 11.2 USB............................................................................... 16
1.3 Preparation............................................................................ 5
11.3 CLOCK.................................................................................. 16
2. Features....................................................................... 5
11.4 MAP....................................................................................... 17
3. Front and Rear Panel
Control Layout............................................................ 6 11.5 PREFS.................................................................................... 17
3.1 Top Controls........................................................................... 6 11.6 FILTER................................................................................... 18
3.1.1 Volume Section............................................................... 6 11.7 POLY (Polymetric) ........................................................... 18
3.1.2 Analog Filter Section................................................... 6 11.8 RAND (Random)............................................................... 18
3.1.3 Wave Designer................................................................ 6 11.9 PROB (Probability) .......................................................... 18
3.1.4 Edit Section...................................................................... 7 11.10 FLAM................................................................................... 19
3.1.5 Mode Section.................................................................. 7 11.11 RPT (Note repeat)........................................................... 19
3.1.6 Sync Section.................................................................... 7 11.12 Step Size Preference.................................................... 19
3.1.7 Playback Controls.......................................................... 7 11.13 SYNC................................................................................... 19
3.1.8 Auto Scroll Section........................................................ 7 11.14 DATA MODE..................................................................... 20
3.1.9 Step & Note Repeat Section....................................... 7 12. Software Updates .................................................. 20
3.1.10 Track Control and Settings....................................... 8 13. Parameters.............................................................. 21
3.1.11 Voice Control.................................................................. 8 14. DAW Control............................................................ 29
3.2 Rear Panel connections..................................................... 9 15. RD-9 Set-up Example............................................. 30
4. Overview................................................................... 10 16. Specifications.......................................................... 33
4.1 Connections ........................................................................ 10 17. Glossary................................................................... 35
4.2 Software Setup................................................................... 10
4.3 Hardware Setup................................................................. 10
4.4 Voice Section....................................................................... 10
5. Creating a Pattern (Step Mode)............................... 11

Thank you
Thank you very much for expressing your confidence in Behringer by purchasing
the RD-9 Rhythm Designer with 11 original drum sounds, 64-step sequencer,
integrated Wave Designer, integrated dual-mode filter, 10 independent analog
outputs plus a mono mix, 16 authentic step pads, 16 pattern changes per song
and an easily readable 7-segment 4-character LED display for tempo.
3 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Important Safety 9. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized 20. Please keep the environmental aspects of battery
Instructions or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades disposal in mind. Batteries must be disposed-of at a
with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug battery collection point.
has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide 21. This apparatus may be used in tropical and moderate
blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the climates up to 45°C.
provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an
electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10. Protect the power cord from being walked on or LEGAL DISCLAIMER
pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, Music Tribe accepts no liability for any loss which may
Terminals marked with this symbol carry
and the point where they exit from the apparatus. be suffered by any person who relies either wholly or in
electrical current of sufficient magnitude
to constitute risk of electric shock. 11. Use only attachments/accessories specified by part upon any description, photograph, or statement
Use only high-quality professional speaker cables with the manufacturer. contained herein. Technical specifications, appearances
¼" TS or twist-locking plugs pre-installed. All other and other information are subject to change without
12. Use only with the
installation or modification should be performed only notice. All trademarks are the property of their
cart, stand, tripod, bracket,
by qualified personnel. respective owners. Midas, Klark Teknik, Lab Gruppen,
or table specified by the
Lake, Tannoy, Turbosound, TC Electronic, TC Helicon,
This symbol, wherever it appears, manufacturer, or sold with
Behringer, Bugera, Oberheim, Auratone, Aston
alerts you to the presence of uninsulated the apparatus. When a cart
Microphones and Coolaudio are trademarks or registered
dangerous voltage inside the is used, use caution when
trademarks of Music Tribe Global Brands Ltd. © Music
enclosure - voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a moving the cart/apparatus
Tribe Global Brands Ltd. 2021 All rights reserved.
risk of shock. combination to avoid
injury from tip-over.
This symbol, wherever it appears,
13. Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or LIMITED WARRANTY
alerts you to important operating and
when unused for long periods of time.
maintenance instructions in the For the applicable warranty terms and conditions
accompanying literature. Please read the manual. 14. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. and additional information regarding Music Tribe’s
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been Limited Warranty, please see complete details online at
Caution damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug musictribe.com/warranty.
To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen
remove the top cover (or the rear section). into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed
No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has
qualified personnel. been dropped.
Caution 15. The apparatus shall be connected to a MAINS socket
To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, outlet with a protective earthing connection.
do not expose this appliance to rain and 16. Where the MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is
moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall
or splashing liquids and no objects filled with liquids, remain readily operable.
such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.
17. Correct disposal of this
Caution product: This symbol indicates
These service instructions are for use that this product must not be
by qualified service personnel only. disposed of with household
To reduce the risk of electric shock do not perform any waste, according to the WEEE
servicing other than that contained in the operation Directive (2012/19/EU) and
instructions. Repairs have to be performed by qualified your national law. This product
service personnel. should be taken to a collection center licensed for the
1. Read these instructions. recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment
(EEE). The mishandling of this type of waste could have
2. Keep these instructions.
a possible negative impact on the environment and
3. Heed all warnings. human health due to potentially hazardous substances
4. Follow all instructions. that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time,
5. Do not use this apparatus near water. your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product
will contribute to the efficient use of natural resources.
6. Clean only with dry cloth.
For more information about where you can take your
7. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. city office, or your household waste collection service.
8. Do not install near any heat sources such as 18. Do not install in a confined space, such as a book
radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus case or similar unit.
(including amplifiers) that produce heat.
19. Do not place naked flame sources, such as lighted
candles, on the apparatus.
4 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

About the RD-9

• Authentic recreation of the influential and highly sought after legendary
analog drum machine
• 11 original drum sounds with additional parameters and
Global/independent Accent capability
• Modern and versatile workflow provides enhanced playability,
enabling you to create captivating live performances
• Powerful 64-step drum sequencer supports poly-meter, step-repeat,
note-repeat, Real-Time Triggering, track-mute and track-solo
• Integrated FX bus features Wave Designer and dual-mode Analog Filter with
per voice assignment
• Live recording, editing and playback of Analog Filter cutoff via automation
• Storage of up to 16 songs and 256 patterns, all of which can be imported/
exported during playback for unlimited songs and patterns
• Pattern Mode allows arrangement of patterns into full songs and
setting number of repeats per song part
• Song Mode allows chaining songs together for live sets and
expanded compositions
• Unique Auto Scroll feature enables improvisation in all modes
• Comprehensive MIDI In/Out/Thru and USB implementation for
synchronization and connection to external devices
• Sync options include USB, MIDI, TRIG and Internal for maximum versatility
• 10 independent analog outputs for external processing or recording your
rhythms as multi-track audio
• Powerful headphone and main outputs with ¼" (6.35 mm) connectors
• High-visibility LED display makes it easy to verify program parameters
• Robust encoder for editing parameters such as Tempo, Swing,
Probability, Flam and Random
• 16 authentic-style step buttons with bold LED indicators for
easy pattern creation

Warranty details can be found at www.musictribe.com

5 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

1. Introduction 2. Features
An ultra-affordable leap into the warm world of analog drum beats, the A Past Masterpiece Rejuvenated
Behringer RD-9 gives you the power to create fascinating rhythms with Great care has been taken in designing the RD-9 to achieve new possibilities in
incredible power and ease. The RD-9’s pure analog signal uses legendary analog beat creation by reviving a timeless analog design from one of the best classic
circuits with some additional pots for more parameters. drum machines of yesteryear. By creating a fresh modern take on a characteristic
drum machine, the RD-9 gives you the power to harness the phenomenal
The RD-9 is ideal for the studio and/or the road. Owning an RD-9 gives you all the
sound of the original. Colossal bass drums through to sizzling hi-hats can be
power of a classic drum machine in a flexible package with the ability to create
manipulated to take your rhythm conception to the next level. This is no digital
bewildering beats.
clone, it’s an analog beat making monster.
1.1 Before you get started
The RD-9 was carefully packed in the factory to guarantee safe transport. Powerful and Feature Rich Sequencer
Nevertheless, we recommend that you carefully examine the packaging and its The RD-9 features what we believe to be one of the most powerful step
contents for any signs of physical damage that may have occurred during transit. sequencers ever created. Improved workflows increase productivity making
If the unit is damaged, please do NOT return it to us, but notify your dealer and complex song creation simple. The 64-step sequencer with storage of up to 256
the shipping company immediately, otherwise claims for damage or replacement patterns and 16 songs allows complicated song arrangements.
may not be granted.

1.1.1 Initial operation A Design for Life

Designed for life and live performance, including all new features for live use in
Be sure that there is enough space around the unit for cooling purposes and, to
each of the sequencer modes: Step Repeat, Note Repeat, Real-Time Triggering
avoid over-heating, please do not place the RD-9 on high temperature devices
and live Step-Overdubbing. Enable recording in Pattern Launch Mode to build up
such as radiators or power amps.
song structures on the fly, switch back to Manual Mode at the touch of a button,
and then use Autofill to introduce more variations. Cue up another song from
WARNING: The RD-9 is supplied with a DC power adapter that meets the memory, without interrupting playback, so you can literally perform entire sets
required safety standards. Do not use any other power adapter. straight from the one machine.

WARNING: Please make sure that all units have a proper ground
Advanced Dual-Mode Filter
connection. For your own safety, never remove or disable the ground conductor
To add new possibilities to the RD-9 it has a highly flexible 12 dB filter, which lets
from any units.
you freely experiment with the cutoff frequency and resonance to create out-of-
this-world beats. RD-9’s HPF button toggles between LPF (lo-pass filter) and HPF
1.2 The product manual (hi-pass filter). Fluid sweeps of the filter’s CUTOFF knob can be recorded straight
This product manual is designed to give you both an overview of the RD-9, as well into the sequencer and can be further tweaked in the Step Editor.
as detailed information on each of the controls and parameters. The manual is
based on the initial software release. Further features and updates will be added
later so please regularly check for software updates. You will find an overview of Wave Shaping Goodness
the physical control elements in the next chapter. The Synthtool, found on the The integrated Wave Designer has individual ATTACK and SUSTAIN controls for
Behringer website can be used to control many of the functions of the RD-9. adding another dimension to drumbeats. Sounds can be controlled in new ways
to provide exciting new tones.
1.3 Preparation
Polymeter Mode
CAUTION: Remember to turn your monitors/loudspeakers on last when
RD-9 gives you the power to control loops in new ways with the Loop Overlay
powering up your system. Turn your monitors/loudspeakers off first when
function, which generates continual variations and polyrhythms to add spice
powering down your system.
to your beats. With the Loop Overlay function, you can set different sequence
lengths for each of the drum tracks independently to create complex overlapping
rhythms and make your song structures really evolve.

Parameter Chaining
Set separate chain preferences for each of your parameters, allowing them to
persist globally or to switch on song or pattern changes. Parameters include
Tempo, Swing, Flam, Probability, independent track mutes/solos, FX bus
assignments, Filter Modes and sweeps for enhanced real-time control. Patterns
can be changed on the fly for further creative control when using the RD-9 as the
heart of your live setup.
6 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Creative Auto Fill

The auto fill function lets you make on the fly changes and gives that extra touch
3. F
 ront and Rear Panel
to your compositions by adding fills at any point in a song. This gives the RD-9 a Control Layout
musical edge when it comes to bringing songs to life.

USB Control
3.1 Top Controls
To bring the RD-9 into the modern world USB has been added for sync and midi 3.1.1 Volume Section
triggering. The RD-9 can be controlled by a DAW if required. Songs and patterns
exchanged, or individual sounds triggered by the DAW sequencer.

Trigger Happy Controls and Connectivity

The RD-9 has 37 knobs and 58 buttons, all laid out in a highly intuitive (1) (2)
format that puts the fun back into your drum beat creation. Input and output
connections include audio input/output, MIDI input, output and thru over USB
(1) MASTER – Controls the main output level.
and 5 pin MIDI din ports. With 3 trigger outs (1 assignable) the RD-9 lets you
control external synths and hardware sequencers to create songs without a (2) PHONES – Adjusts the headphones level.
digital audio workstation (DAW) in sight. Full live performances can be made NOTE: The headphones signal is taken before the Wave Designer
using these extra outputs by controlling other units. The RD-9 can also send and Filter for monitoring purposes. This means the Wave Designer
and receive clock information with highly accurate timing to sync it to the and Filter are not audible in the headphones.
outside world.
3.1.2 Analog Filter Section

You are covered

We always strive to provide the best possible customer experience. Our products
are made in our own Music Tribe factory using state-of-the-art automation,
enhanced production workflows and quality assurance labs with the most
sophisticated test equipment available in the world. As a result, we have one of (3) (4) (5) (6)
the lowest product failure rates in the industry, and we confidently back it up
(3) CUTOFF – Adjusts the cutoff frequency of the filter.
with a generous warranty program.
(4) HPF – Toggle the filter between HPF (hi-pass filter) and
LPF (lo-pass filter, default).
(5) ON – Engages the filter into circuit when illuminated.
(6) RESONANCE – Adjusts the resonance of the filter.
This emphasizes the frequencies around the cutoff point.

3.1.3 Wave Designer

(7) (8) (9) (10)

(7) ATTACK – Controls the attack portion of the Wave Designer circuit. Turn
counter clockwise (CCW) to reduce the attack portion of the signal and
clockwise (CW) to enhance the attack portion of the selected signal.
(8) SIG – Shows that signal is present in the Wave Designer circuit.
(9) SEND – Activates the Wave Designer assignment menu. The button is
illuminated when one or more voices are assigned to this bus.
(10) SUSTAIN – Controls the sustain portion of the Wave Designer circuit.
Turn CCW to reduce the sustain portion of the signal and turn CW to
lengthen the sustain.
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3.1.4 Edit Section (26) STOP – Stops the currently playing song or pattern.
(27) PLAY/PAUSE – Play or pause the current song or pattern.
(28) DATA – Encoder for data editing.

(11) (12) (13) (14) (29) DATA MODE – Cycles through the various Data Modes. Tempo, Swing,
Probability and Flam.
(30) TEMPO – Adjust the Tempo parameter when selected with the
(11) SAVE – Save a song or pattern to a memory slot.
DATA encoder.
(12) COPY – Copy pattern from one location to another memory location.
(31) SWING – Adjust the Swing parameter or shuffle feeling when selected with
(13) ERASE – Delete the selected song, pattern or settings. the DATA encoder (25% negative swing, 50% straight to 75% full swing).
(14) DUMP – Performs a MIDI SysEx Dump of pattern, song or settings. (32) PROB – Adjust the probability factor of steps triggering.
(33) FLAM – Adjust the FLAM width.
3.1.5 Mode Section
3.1.8 Auto Scroll Section
(35)
(15) (16) (17)

(15) SONG – Enter Song Mode. Cue 1 of 16 songs.

(16) PATTERN – Enter Pattern Mode. Use the 16 available patterns to (34) (36) (37) (38)
build your song.
(17) STEP – Shows each available step for the selected voice (34) AUTO SCROLL – Step Mode: Keep play head visible. Pattern Mode: Advance
(up to 64 steps per pattern). song when loop expires. If Auto Scroll is enabled for a pattern that has more
than 16 steps, when the play head advances beyond a 16-step boundary, the
3.1.6 Sync Section steps will automatically switch pages to stay in sync with the play head.
(35) BANKS 16/32/48/64 – White shows bank position of play head in current
pattern. Red shows currently-viewed bank position.
(36) << (POSITION MOVE LEFT) - Step Mode: Choose viewed bank position.
(18) (19) (20) (21) (22) Pattern Mode: Choose play head position within selected song.
(37) LENGTH – Step mode: Set the length of the selected pattern. Pattern Mode:
(18) CYCLE – Cycles through the various SYNC options when the sequencer is Set number of repeats for selected part within the song.
stopped. Internal, MIDI, USB or TRIG (External Clock) options.
(38) >> (POSITION MOVE RIGHT) - Step Mode: Choose viewed bank position.
(19) INTERNAL – The unit is the sync master. Pattern Mode: Choose play head position within selected song.
(20) MIDI – Sync is taken from MIDI in port.
3.1.9 Step & Note Repeat Section
(21) USB – Sync is taken from the USB port.
(46)
(22) TRIG – Sync is taken from the External Clock input.

3.1.7 Playback Controls

(23) (24) (28) (30) (31) (32) (33)
(39) (40) (41) (42) (43) (44) (45)

(39) 1 – Step or Note repeat of a value of 1.

(40) 2 – Step or Note repeat of a value of 2.
(41) 4 – Step or Note repeat of a value of 4.
(42) 8 – Step or Note repeat of a value of 8.
(25) (26) (27) (29) (43) STEP REPEAT – Repeats the step by the selected value.
(44) NOTE REPEAT – Repeats the note played with the trigger button by the
(23) TAP/HOLD – Set the tempo of the unit with 5 taps. Hold for quick selected value.
macro control.
(45) TRIGGER – Trigger repeats when engaged.
(24) DISPLAY – Multi function 4-character display.
(46) 1/2/4/8 – Indication of number of repeats selected.
(25) RECORD – Enable/disable record mode.
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3.1.10 Track Control and Settings

(47)
(48)
(50)
(51)

(49)

(47) MUTE – Activates mute menu.

(48) SOLO – Activates solo menu.
(49) STEP BUTTONS – Used to input step information into patterns and is also
used for various system tasks when used in conjunction with the (50)
SETTINGS button or for deeper editing.
(50) SETTINGS – Used in combination with the (49) STEP BUTTONS to select
different operational modes.
(51) AUTOFILL – Select and add a fill pattern.

3.1.11 Voice Control

(52)

(53)
(63)
(54) (64)
(55) (62)
(56) (61)
(59)
(57)

(60) (58)
(52) LEVEL – Level control for the 9 voices plus Accent. (59) PITCH DEPTH – Sets how much the pitch envelope affects the
bass drum oscillator.
(53) TUNE – Controls the pitch envelope depth applied to the bass drum,
changes the pitch of the drum sound for the snare/toms and controls the (60) PITCH – Sets the frequency of the bass drum oscillator.
frequency of the hats, ride and crash.
(61) CH DECAY – Changes the decay time of the closed hat voice.
(54) ATTACK – Controls the Attack portion of the bass drum sound. Turn CCW for shorter, CW for longer.
(55) DECAY – Changes the decay time of the voice. Turn CCW for shorter, (62) OH DECAY – Changes the decay time of the open hat voice.
CW for longer.
(63) CRASH TUNE – Changes the pitch of the crash voice.
(56) TONE – Applies a filter to the voice, reducing the high frequencies
(64) RIDE TUNE - Changes the pitch of the ride voice.
as you turn CCW.
(57) SNAPPY – Adjust the amount of snap to the snare sound.
Turning CW increases snap.
(58) VOICE SELECT – Selects the voice for playing and editing patterns, wave
designer/filter, soloing or mute.
9 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

3.2 Rear Panel connections

(65) (66) (67) (68) (69) (70) (71) (72) (73) (74) (75) (76) (77) (78) (79) (80) (81) (82) (83) (84) (85) (86)(87)

(65) POWER – Connect the supplied PSU and engage power switch to turn on.
(66) PHONES - Connect headphones via 6.35 mm (¼”) TRS connector.
(67) MONO – Main output via 6.35 mm (¼”) TRS connector.
(68) RETURN – Sums audio post filter bus.
(69) USB – Connect to a computer for updates and DAW control.
(70) MIDI IN – Accepts MIDI data from an external MIDI device such as a
sequencer or DAW.
(71) MIDI OUT – Output of MIDI data to an external MIDI device.
(72) MIDI THRU – A direct output of the MIDI IN to chain to other devices.
(73) RIDE INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – Unbalanced output of the Ride.
(74) CRASH INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – Unbalanced output of the Crash.
(75) HI HAT INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – Unbalanced output of the Hi Hat.
(76) CLAP INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – Unbalanced output of the Hand Clap.
(77) RIM SHOT INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – Unbalanced output of the Rim Shot.
(78) HI TOM INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – Unbalanced output of the High Tom.
(79) MID TOM INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – Unbalanced output of the Mid Tom.
(80) LOW TOM INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – Unbalanced output of the Low Tom.
(81) SNARE INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – Unbalanced output of the Snare Drum.
(82) BASS INDIVIDUAL OUTPUT – Unbalanced output of the Bass Drum.
(83) TRIGGER OUT 1 RIM SHOT – +5 V 2 ms pulse to trigger external devices.
(84) TRIGGER OUT 2 CLAP – +5 V 2 ms pulse to trigger external devices.
(85) TRIGGER OUT 3 BD ASSIGNABLE – +5 V 2 ms pulse to trigger
external devices.
(86) SYNC IN – SYNC to external device transmitting clock information.
(87) SYNC OUT – SYNC external devices to the Rhythm Designer.
10 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

4. Overview (1) ACCENT – This function is used to give emphasis to any voice. When
programming a step, press the step twice of the voice you wish to add a
fixed accent to, this is shown in solid red. Press again to remove the step.
This overview will help you set up the RD-9 analog rhythm designer and briefly
Fixed accents are not affected by the accent control.
introduce its capabilities.
The ACCENT control determines the amount of emphasis given to global
4.1 Connections accents. To add a global accent, which affects all voices on that step, press
and hold the TAP/HOLD button and press the step you want the global accent
The RD-9 has a ¼" (6.35 mm) mono jack output on the rear of the unit plus 10
on. This is displayed in white. Turn the level control counterclockwise (CCW)
independent voice ¼" (6.35 mm) jacks.
to reduce the amount of global accent on all voices. Turn clockwise (CW) to
Note: When the individual voice outputs are used and connected, they cut increase the global accent level.
that voice from the MAIN MONO output. This is useful for adding effects or for
Accent can also be programmed via MIDI or USB with a high velocity value,
external processing to individual sounds. E.G. Use the Bass Drum and Snare Drum
in a DAW or via MIDI any velocity value can be used in order for crescendos
outputs to add compression and reverb to those voices and apply processing to
to be programmed. Sounds can be played with accent by holding the TAP/
the remaining voices via the mono output.
HOLD button while pressing the voice you wish to play (this also works with
Audio return is via the ¼" (6.35 mm) mono RETURN jack on the rear panel. This the TRIGGER button).
input can be used to process an individual voice or voices via external processing
(2) BASS DRUM – This classic sound defined a generation. The LEVEL control
(mixer, compressor or reverb, etc.), then return the signal back into the main
adjusts the level compared to the other voices. TUNE controls the pitch
output of the RD-9. Please consult the connection set-up guide for examples
envelope depth applied to the bass drum. Turning CW Raises the pitch of
(8.1).
the sound. ATTACK – Controls the Attack portion of the bass drum sound,
The CLOCK IN/OUT connections use 1/8" (3.5mm) TRS jacks. turn CW to increase the attack. DECAY controls how long the drum will ring.
Turn CW for longer tones. PITCH DEPTH adjusts how much the pitch envelope
CAUTION: Do not overload the 1/8" (3.5 mm) CLOCK IN input. This jack can only
affects the bass drum oscillator, turn CW to increase the slide of the sound.
accept voltages up to a maximum of +15 V. The 3.5 mm CLOCK OUT outputs
PITCH sets the frequency of the bass drum oscillator. PITCH DEPTH and PITCH
should only be connected to inputs capable of receiving the output voltages.
are only active with enhanced mode on described later in this manual.
Failure to follow these instructions may damage the RD-9 or external units.
(3) SNARE DRUM – The SNAPPY control simulates the sound of the
4.2 Software Setup snares microphone moving closer to and from the bottom drumhead. TUNE
changes the pitch of the snare. TONE Applies a filter to the voice, reducing
The RD-9 is a USB Class Compliant MIDI device, and so no driver installation is
the high frequencies as you turn CCW. LEVEL control as the bass drum voice.
required. The RD-9 does not require any additional drivers to work with Windows
and MacOS. The Behringer SynthTool is available to program many of the features (4) LOW TOM – TUNING adjusts the pitch of the sound. Turn CCW for
of the RD-9. low sounds and CCW to raise the pitch. LEVEL control is the same as the bass
drum voice.
4.3 Hardware Setup (5) MID TOM – Same functions as (4) LOW TOM.
First make all the audio and power connections to your system. Connect a DAW,
(6) HI TOM – Same functions as (4) LOW TOM.
external sequencer or keyboard with MIDI output directly to the RD-9 MIDI IN
5-pin DIN type input or via MIDI over USB if desired. Apply power to the RD-9 (7) RIM SHOT – The LEVEL control adjusts the level compared to the
using the supplied power adapter only. Ensure your sound system is turned other voices.
down. Turn on the RD-9 rear power switch. Use the MIDI page in the settings
(8) CLAP – The LEVEL control adjusts the level compared to the other voices.
function to set the RD-9 to a unique MIDI channel within your system.
(9) CLOSED HAT – LEVEL control as the BASS DRUM voice. TUNE controls the
4.4 Voice Section frequency of the hats with ENHANCED MODE on and affect both closed and
open Hi Hat. When the closed hat is programmed on a step immediately
In this section the sounds and controls are described to help you achieve the most
after an OPEN HAT, the closed hat voice cuts the OPEN HAT voice, which is a
from the RD-9 which has 11 different sounds.
classic drum machine trick to simulate a real hi-hat. CH DECAY Changes the
decay time of the closed hat voice. Turn CCW for shorter, CW for longer.

(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12)
11 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

(10) OPEN HAT – Changes the decay time of the open hat voice. Turn CCW for 4. Select the Step number of the Pattern you wish to save, current
shorter, CW for longer. pattern will be displayed in white after which SAVE will flash. Note
you can only save to the current pattern position.
(11) CRASH – CRASH TUNE controls the frequency. LEVEL as the bass drum voice.
5. Press the flashing SAVE button to execute the operation.
(12) RIDE – RIDE TUNE controls the frequency. LEVEL as the bass drum voice.

How to copy a pattern to other pattern locations:

5. Creating a Pattern (Step Mode) 1. In PATTERN mode, hold copy while pressing the step key you wish to
copy to. Note patterns can only be copied within the current
Patterns can use up to 64 steps which gives a great deal of flexibility.
selected song.
How to record a basic 16-step pattern:
1. Select a SONG.
How to copy pages in step mode, copy page 1 (1-16), page 2 (17-32), page 3
2. Press PATTERN. (33-48) or page 4 (49-64) to other pages:
3. Select desired pattern number via step keys 1-16. 1. In STEP mode, press LENGTH to enter pattern length setting.
4. Press STEP. 2. Select a page using the arrows and press COPY.
5. Select desired tempo with Data control. 3. Select the page you wish to copy to with the arrows then press SAVE.
6. Press RECORD.
Live Data Vs Stored Data.
7. Select the VOICE you wish to use.
In Song and Pattern mode there are two forms of data stored:
8. Steps can be programmed either with the unit playing (press PLAY) or
Live Data: Any changes to songs or patterns that have been made and not stored
in the stopped position. The moving white LED is the play head which
are held in live memory
shows the current play position. The TRIGGER pad can also be used to
play and record the currently-selected voice. Stored Data: When a song has been stored.
9. Select different voices to add into the current pattern. How to erase a pattern:
10. Press stop and record to exit record step mode. 1. Press ERASE.
2. The SONG and PATTERN buttons will flash. Press PATTERN.
Auto Save
3. Use TAP/HOLD to select either the Live or Stored data to be erased.
The Auto Save function allows certain functions to be automatically stored
as listed. 4. Select the pattern you wish to delete via one of the 16 step keys.
All the below pattern changes will now be auto saved with STEP RECORD on: 5. Press the now flashing ERASE button to execute the delete process.
This is a permanent and can’t be undone.
1. Step on/off by pressing STEP button
2. Press TRIGGER to set step on when playing
How to dump a pattern:
3. Note repeat live record
The DUMP control works in the same way as the SAVE control. Instead of saving,
4. Set step on/off in RAND setting menu the DUMP control will output the selection as a SysEx message. This action sends
the pattern/song data as SysEx. This information can be saved and loaded by a
5. Press STEP in pattern length setting
third-party program or sent to another RD-9.
6. Sweep erase by Hold + VOICE button
Note: Pattern length, step on/off and accent on/off will be saved automatically
7. Erasing all steps of selected voice by ERASE + VOICE button when programmed in step mode with RECORD enabled.
8. Step copy 1-16 to 17-32 etc

To activate Auto Save enter STEP mode, hold TAP/HOLD then press RECORD to set
pattern auto save on or off.
When STEP RECORD is enabled, the display shows "auto" or "manu" for 1 second
to indicate the save mode.
To recall a stored pattern hold TAP/HOLD + STEP button of the pattern you
wish to restore. This only works when you are in Pattern mode and set to manu
(manual) save mode.
How to save a pattern:
1. Once you have created your masterpiece of a pattern.
2. Press SAVE.
3. Press PATTERN again.
12 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Voice Erase:
Pattern Step Pattern Pattern Step Pattern
To erase all of a selected voices steps in a pattern, hold ERASE and select the voice
Range Number Length Range Number Length
select button to delete all steps instantly.
16 1 1 48 1 33
The sweep erase function can be used while playing in STEP PLAY or RECORD
16 2 2 48 2 34
mode, by holding TAP/HOLD and then pressing the voice button to remove the
selected voices steps from pattern while playing. The voice will be deleted before
16 3 3 48 3 35
it is played. In RECORD this is permanent, in PLAY mode the notes will be restored
as the play head moves past steps.
16 4 4 48 4 36
16 5 5 48 5 37
Auto Fill
The Auto Fill function is used to insert fill rhythms into the live play mode of
16 6 6 48 6 38
the RD-9. Fills are created in the same way a pattern is created and stored. The
difference between Auto Fill and normal pattern playback is that once an Auto
16 7 7 48 7 39
Fill has finished playing, the function will return you to the previously played
pattern unless you have selected a different pattern while the Auto Fill function
16 8 8 48 8 40
is active. If a different pattern is selected, the new pattern will play after the Auto
Fill pattern has ended. 16 9 9 48 9 41
The SYNTHTRIBE app is an easy way to save song and pattern data. Patterns and
16 10 10 48 10 42
Songs can be imported and exported quickly.
How to use Auto Fill 16 11 11 48 11 43
Once you have programmed patterns, use any of them by pressing the AUTO FILL 16 12 12 48 12 44
button in pattern mode and selecting any step key.
16 13 13 48 13 45
Tip: 4 or 8 steps are recommended for drum fills, but any size can be used up to
64 steps.
16 14 14 48 14 46
16 15 15 48 15 47
Pattern length
Pattern length can be changed from 1 to 64 steps and on a pattern by pattern
16 16 16 48 16 48
basis. This adjustable length can be used to create different time signatures. For
example, selecting a pattern length of 12 steps with a step size using 1/16th will
32 1 17 64 1 49
create a 3/4 (waltz style) time signature.
32 2 18 64 2 50
To change the number of steps in a pattern:
1. Press the STEP and RECORD buttons. 32 3 19 64 3 51
2. Press LENGTH.
32 4 20 64 4 52
3. Use the <</>> keys either side of the LENGTH button to choose
32 5 21 64 5 53
either 16, 32, 48 or 64 range as the starting point show by the red
LED.
32 6 22 64 6 54
4. Press the step keys to change to the desired pattern length. For
example, if length 64 is selected, choosing step key 12 will make the 32 7 23 64 7 55
pattern 60 steps long. Pattern length is shown in solid white LEDs.
32 8 24 64 8 56

32 9 25 64 9 57
If you are recording a pattern with more than 16 steps, press the AUTO SCROLL
button in Step Record to alternate between blocks. For example, when recording
32 10 26 64 10 58
a 24 step pattern you will alternate between block one (LED above 16 is lit) with
16 steps and block two (LED above 32 is let) with 8 steps 32 11 27 64 11 59

32 12 28 64 12 60

32 13 29 64 13 61
32 14 30 64 14 62

32 15 31 64 15 63

32 16 32 64 16 64
13 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

6. Playing a Pattern (Pattern Mode) NOTE: All mutes can be cleared by holding HOLD/TAP and
pressing the MUTE button.
Press the PATTERN button and select the pattern that you wish to play.
Solo functions
In pattern Mode, all patterns with stored pattern data are white, current active is This function gives you the ability to solo a voice or voices within a pattern, song
red (you can see which patterns are programmed). or globally.
Step Repeat To Solo a voice(s):
This function can be used for changing patterns during a live performance.
1. While a pattern is playing select track SOLO.
When STEP REPEAT is triggered the current step or steps (depending on the step
settings) will be repeated until the TRIGGER button is released. The number 2. Select the voice(s) you wish to solo.
of steps repeated are 1,2, 4 or 8. This is a very powerful feature that can, for
3. The soloed voice(s) will be illuminated in white.
example be used to loop the end of a pattern creating a fill.
4. Press track SOLO to exit.
To use:
1. Press STEP REPEAT.
NOTE: SOLO will always take priority over MUTE. Soloing a voice that is muted
2. Select how many repeats you require (1,2,4 or 8) will cause that voice to sound.
3. While a pattern is playing press and hold the TRIGGER button to NOTE: All solos can be cleared by holding HOLD/TAP and pressing the
repeat steps. SOLO button.
4. The step number can be changed while the TRIGGER button is held to Instant Pattern Switching
create different loops effects. This function allows patterns to be instantly switched to a different pattern at
the same play head position in time.
5. Press STEP REPEAT to exit.
NOTE: Step repeat will not function If POLY mode is on any voice. To perform this switch first select PATTERN MODE. Then hold the PATTERN button
and select the next pattern with any white step key (stored pattern).
Note Repeat
This feature can be used for transforming patterns during a live performance.
When Note Repeat is triggered the currently selected voice will be repeated until
the TRIGGER button is released. The number of notes repeated are 1,2, 4 or 8. This
7. C
 reating a Song (Pattern
creative feature can be used to create drum roll and ratchet style effects on the Chaining Mode)
fly by repeating the current note while the rhythm continues to run. This can be
recorded into a pattern in RECORD STEP mode. Pattern mode can be used to trigger any of the 16 patterns available when
playing back. Patterns can be chained together to form a song by the following
To use and record:
steps:
1. Press NOTE REPEAT.
1. Select song via 16 step keys.
2. Select how many repeats you require (1,2,4 or 8).
2. Press PATTERN to enter Pattern mode.
3. Press RECORD in step mode.
3. In Pattern Mode press the RECORD button.
4. While a pattern is playing press and hold the TRIGGER button to
4. Press the STEP BUTTON to select the first pattern in your song.
repeat notes.
5. Press the AUTO SCROLL button on and the LENGTH button
5. The note number can be changed while the TRIGGER button is held to
will be flashing.
create different fill effects.
6. Press the LENGTH button (lights solid),
6. Press NOTE REPEAT to exit.
7. Use the DATA knob to select number of repeats.
NOTE: Note repeats can be recorded in STEP RECORD mode. To remove a NOTE
REPEAT from a step, remove the programmed step from the pattern. The red LEDs 8. Press any of the STEP BUTTONS to add next step pattern to the song.
above indicate if the selected step has a repeat of 1,2,4 or 8 programmed.
9. Repeat steps 7–8 until all desired patterns have been entered.
Note repeat can also be programmed:
10. At any time use the << />> keys with the AUTO SCROLL button
Step 1: enable note repeat and select a repeat number in STEP mode. lit to move forward and backward through the song to check
programming. If the LENGTH button is lit, the display will show
Step 2: select any voice you want.
number of repeats; if the LENGTH button is flashing, the display will
Step 3: hold STEP number button then press TRIGGER. show the pattern number of that step.
Note repeat can be added with or without step record on with this method. 11. Save the song (with AUTO SCROLL on).
Track Mute
This function lets you mute any voice(s) within a pattern, song or globally. To save the song that you have just created:
To mute a voice(s): 1. Press SAVE.
1. While a pattern is playing select track MUTE. 2. Press SONG.
2. Select the voice(s) you wish to mute. 3. Select destination via step key (current song highlighted with
a white LED)
3. The muted voice(s) will be illuminated in red.
4. Press SAVE to execute operation.
4. Press track MUTE to exit.
14 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

To Erase a selected pattern in the chain, move to the pattern you wish to remove To chain songs:
(by using the << and >> buttons) and press Erase.
1. Press the SONG button to enter Song Mode, make sure RECORD is
disabled, USE the STEP BUTTONS 1-16 to choose a song
Note: Make sure you store the song with the AUTO SCROLL on otherwise your (white LED on).
song will not playback as programmed.
2. Press the RECORD button.
Note: When you erase a pattern from the chain it doesn’t remove/update the
3. You can now select the next song in the chain,
number of repeats in that place, so if Pattern 3 repeated 6 times and that pattern
this will be shown by a red LED.
is deleted from the chain, Pattern 4 would move to that position and will be
repeated 6 times. 4. If no Song is selected the chain will go back to Song 1.
5. Save song.
Live Data Vs Stored Data.
In Song mode there are two forms of data stored:
Example:
Live Data: Any changes to songs or patterns that have been made and not stored
After you have programmed and saved 3 songs that are song 1, song 2 and
are held in live memory
song 3, follow the above instructions, you can chain song 1 to song 2 as below:
Stored Data: When a song has been stored.
1. 
Press the SONG button to enter Song Mode, make sure the RECORD
Use the TAP/HOLD button while editing in COPY/ERASE/DUMP to select either the is disabled, press STEP 1 to choose song 1.
Live or Stored data.
2. Press the RECORD button.
To erase the live or stored song data:
3. Press STEP 2 to chain song 2 to song 1, the red LED of STEP 2 will light.
1. Enter SONG mode.
4. Save song 1
2. Press ERASE.
3. Select SONG. Now to chain song 2 to song 3:
4. Use TAP/HOLD to select Live or Stored data. 1. Press the SONG button to enter Song Mode, make sure the RECORD is
disabled, press STEP 2 to choose song 2.
5. Press ERASE to complete the operation.
2. Press the RECORD button.
3. Press STEP 3 to chain song 3 to song 2, the red LED of STEP 3 will light.
Changing the current song while in playback.
It is possible to change the current song while in playback. This allows songs to 4. Save song 2
be changed on the fly when needed without having to stop playback.
1. Enter SONG MODE. As song 3 has not been selected in to a chain song, it has the default chain song
which is song 1.
2. Hold TAP/HOLD button.
After finishing the above steps, press RECORD to disable it, press STEP 1 to select
3. Select the next song with step button (1-16) to go to after the current
song 1, make sure both AUTO SCROLL in Song and Pattern Mode are set to on,
pattern has finished.
then press play, the sequencer will play from song 1 to song 2 then to song 3. If
4. The song step button you have selected will flash white while the the song chain PREFS is set to loop, after song 3 plays to the end it will go back to
others will flash red, now select the pattern from the new song. song 1 again.
5. When pattern is selected, the button will fast flash red until the Please note that this feature over-rides the Chain Songs function in Settings.
selected song and pattern starts. Deselecting the AUTO SCROLL button while a song is playing reverts to the
original Chain Songs setting.
Note: this will break the song chain playing.

8. C
 reating a Song Chain NOTE: When Auto Scroll is active for Songs it will affect how patterns are played
back so turn Auto Scroll off for normal pattern playback.
(Song Mode) TIP: In the Synthtool app patterns and songs can be created and saved to and
from the RD-9.
Songs are a collection of up to 16 patterns which can be played and interacted
with in a live playing format. Pattern Record mode is used to arrange the
patterns into the structure of a song (described in section 7). Songs must be
Auto save the “chain” song:
stored with AUTO SCROLL on in order to chain songs together.
In SONG mode with record enabled, press any step button to select that song as a
A total of 16 songs can be created with up to 16 patterns in each. That makes 256
chained song for current song, the chained song will be auto saved.
possible patterns in the unit at any one time.
How to erase a song:
Please note a song has to play to the end before it will advance to the next song.
This is how seamless playback is created for extended performances. You cannot 1. Press ERASE.
switch songs halfway through playback. This can only be done by stopping
2. The SONG and PATTERN buttons will flash. Press SONG.
playback and selecting a different song.
3. Use TAP/HOLD to select either the Live or Stored data to be erased.
4. Press ERASE to delete the current song.
15 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

9. Wave Designer 10. Analog Filter

The Analog Filter (VCF) section works on selected sounds routed via an audio bus
Wave Designer is a powerful tool for adjusting signal transients and dynamics,
fed from the Wave Designer circuit.
such as attack and sustain. Use the Wave Designer to make a snare drum really
“crack” in the mix, or to expand the bass drum to be even more devastating. The CUTOFF control sets the frequency where the filter is applied. The filter cut off
With both ATTACK and SUSTAIN controls set to 12 o’clock the Wave Designer can be programmed and automated (when the ON button is flashing, automation
is essentially in bypass and will not affect any voices being sent to the Wave is active).
Designer via the bus.
When the HPF (High Pass Filter) button is engaged the filter cuts the the low
Adjusting the ATTACK knob will make the opening transient of the voice sound frequency cutoff point as you turn the control CW. When the HPF button is not
punchier. Increasing the SUSTAIN control acts in a similar way as a compressor, engaged, the CUTOFF knob defaults to a low-pass filter (LPF), which gradually
allowing the peaks to carry on longer before decay. The effect can also be used to cuts the high frequencies as you turn the control CCW.
reduce the sustain for a more staccato sound.
Press the ON button to activate the filter circuit.
NOTE: Using a long sustain on naturally staccato sounds (i.e., Rim Shot) may
The RESONANCE control adjusts the resonance of the filter. Turning CW adds a
cause noise. Dial this noise out by reducing the sustain amount.
peak at the cutoff frequency that accents the surrounding frequencies.
All voices sent to the Wave Designer as described will then pass into the Analog
The filter CUTOFF control setting can be recorded as automation. After
Filter section to be processed.
programming a pattern, add the voice or voices you wish to be processed by the
The SIG LED shows that a signal is present in the Analog Filter/Wave Designer bus. Analog Filter and Wave Designer bus as described earlier in this manual. Next,
while the pattern is playing and in Record Mode, rotate the CUTOFF knob and
The SEND button activates the Wave Designer circuit.
listen to the results. Once you are happy with your filter sweep exit Record Mode.
How to assign voices to the FX bus: Next time you play the pattern, the recorded filter sweep will play back.
Live Filter Mode can be toggled on and off, and this toggling action gives you
1. Press SEND in the FX sections (flashes orange).
either manual control of the filter frequency or automated Filter Mode, which
2. Use SELECT to assign which voices go to the bus (solid pink LED uses the stored filter automation data. The live Filter Mode can be toggled on and
indicates voice sent to the FX bus). off by holding the TAP/HOLD button and pressing the filter ON button to activate
different states:
3. Press SEND in the FX section to exit. SEND button will be
solid white to show voices are assigned to the FX bus.
• Flashing filter ON button= Filter plays stored automation data
TIP: Hold TAP/HOLD while pressing SEND to clear all voice from the FX bus.
• Solid filter ON button = Filter in live control mode
The diagram below shows the audio routing of the voices as they pass through
the RD-9. Only one voice is shown in this example, but the same process applies
to all voices. At any time, you can drop into Record Mode and adjust the filter settings that will
be stored with the current pattern, as long as the filter settings are set to Pattern
(see SETTINGS 11.5 below).
It is also possible to manually program the filter per step or to edit a recorded
filter sweep.

1. Press SETTINGS.
2. Press FILTER (STEP BUTTON 6).
3. Pressing different step keys (1-64) will display the current filter
position from 0, turn the DATA control counterclockwise (CCW) to
255 turn clockwise (CW). Depending on which filter setting is in use,
HPF or LPF, the filter will be fully open or closed. Up to 64 steps can
be programmed using the <</>> keys in the LENGTH section to
navigate step position.
4. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.
5. Save PATTERN.
NOTE: Filter automation will now carry across when extending / copying lengths
of patterns.
- turning the Cut Off control in play mode will end playing the automated Filter
mode.
- turning the Cut Off knob in record with Filter on will start recording the
automated Filter.
16 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

11. Settings
The Settings functions are listed below. All features are accessed by pressing the SETTINGS button and selecting the associated step key.

Tempo Preference Options:

11.1 MIDI
1. Global, where all patterns play at the set tempo, even if a different
To enter the MIDI settings page press SETTINGS, select MIDI (STEP BUTTON 1) and
tempo is stored within a pattern or song.
use the TAP/HOLD key to access the various pages described below:
2. Song, where all patterns within in a song will follow the tempo set
within that song, even if a different tempo is stored within a pattern.
1. Choose the MIDI channel from 1-16, All or Out (The Output setting
3. Pattern, where all patterns will play at the tempo they have been
follows the MIDI OUT setting in the next step below) for the incoming
saved with and not be affected by global or song tempo changes.
MIDI IN port.
2. Select the MIDI OUT channel from 1-16.
Swing Preference Options:
3. Turn on FORWARD TO USB to send the MIDI output of the unit to the
USB OUT. 1. Global, where all patterns Swing settings, even if a different Swing
setting is stored within a pattern or song.
4. SOFT THRU on/off turns the MIDI OUT jack into a 2nd MIDI THRU port
by sending the data from the MIDI IN to the MIDI OUT port. 2. Song, where all patterns Swing settings will follow the setting a
within that song, even if a different Swing setting is stored within a
5. DEVICE ID sets the units ID from 1-16. This is helpful when dealing
pattern.
with multiple units via SysEx.
3. Pattern, where all patterns will play with the Swing settings they
have been saved with and not be affected by global or song Swing
changes.
11.2 11.2 USB
To enter the USB MIDI settings page press SETTINGS, select USB MIDI (STEP
BUTTON 2) and use the TAP/HOLD key to access the various pages described Probability Preference Options:
below:
1. Global, where all the patterns probability settings, even if a different
probability setting is stored within a pattern or song.
1. Choose the USB MIDI channel from 1-16, All or Out (The Output 2. Song, where all patterns probability settings will follow the
setting follows the USB MIDI OUT setting in the next step below) for probability setting within that song, even if a different probability
the incoming USB MIDI IN port. setting is stored within a pattern.
2. Select the USB MIDI OUT channel from 1-16. 3. Pattern, where all patterns will play with the probability settings
they have been saved with and not be affected by global or song
3. Turn on FORWARD TO MIDI sends the USB MIDI output of the unit to
probability changes.
the MIDI OUT.

NOTE: Care should be taken with Forward to MIDI/USB settings when both MIDI Flam Preference Options:
and USB interfaces are connected to the same computer, as there is a possibility
1. Song, where all patterns flam settings will follow the flam setting
of data loops occurring.
within that song, even if a different flam setting is stored within a
pattern.
2. Pattern, where all patterns will play with the flam settings they have
11.3 CLOCK been saved with and not be affected by song flam changes.
To enter the CLOCK settings page press SETTINGS, select CLOCK (Step key 3) and
use the TAP/HOLD key to access the various pages described below:
Analog Clock Modes
PPQ (Pulses Per Quarter) is the smallest unit of time used for sequencing note
Tempo Preference
and automation events, both by step sequencers and in the MIDI standard. Most
Swing Preference MIDI sequencers allow the number of PPQ to be varied for more or less temporal
resolution depending on the needs of the performer. The default is 24 PPQ, as
Probability Preference
this is the most commonly used setting.
Flam Preference
Analog Clock Mode
17 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

This function allows communication with various analogue clock types 4. Press settings twice to exit.
as listed below:
Chain Songs
Clock Settings The Chain function allows you to link together songs. PREFS has three options:
1 PPS • Loop – Causes selected song to loop from beginning to end until the
STOP button is pressed. Pressing the PLAY/PAUSE button will cause the
1 PPQ
next selected song to start from the beginning.
2 PPQ
• Hold – Causes the last bar of the selected song to repeat until stop is
4 PPQ pressed. Pressing the PLAY/PAUSE button will cause the next selected
song to start from the beginning.
24 PPQ
• Stop – The selected song will run from beginning to end, then stop at
48 PPQ
the end of the last bar. Pressing the PLAY/PAUSE will cause the next
selected song to start from the beginning.
Note that the above preferences are over-ridden when chaining songs
(see section 8).
11.4 MAP
The map function allows you to change the MIDI notes that trigger the RD-9
voices either via the USB or MIDI ports. Filter HPF Preference
The default numbers are listed in the table below. Set the HPF on/off state Globally, by Song or by Pattern.
Filter Io Preference
Voice MIDI Note No.
Set the Filters on/off state Globally, by Song or by Pattern.
Bass Drum 36
Filter Auto Preference
Snare Drum 40
Set the filters Automation state Globally, by Song or by Pattern. This determines
Low Tom/Low Conga 45
how the filter uses recorded filter automation information.
Mid Tom/Mid Conga 47
Poly Preference
Hi Tom/Hi Conga 50
Set the Poly loop function to be controlled Globally, by Song or by Pattern (See
Rim Shot/Claves 37 section 11.7 for more information on polyrhythms).
Clap/Maracas 39 Step Size Preference
Cowbell 56 Set the Step Size to be controlled Globally, by Song or by Pattern.
Cymbal 51 Auto Advance Preference
Open Hat 46 Set the Auto Advance Globally or by Song.
Closed Hat 42 Auto Scroll Preference
Set the AUTO SCROLL function Globally or by Pattern.
To enter the MAP settings page press SETTINGS, select MAP (STEP BUTTON 4) and
use the SELECT key for each voice to view the current MIDI note number. The DATA Bus Send Preference
knob can be used to adjust the number from 0-127.
Set the bus send to Filter and Wave Designer Globally, by Song or by Pattern.
The MIDI map is set globally and is the same for all songs and patterns.
Mute Preference
Set the mute control preference Globally, by Song or by Pattern.
11.5 PREFS Solo Preference
To enter the PREFS settings page press SETTINGS, select PREFS (Step key 6) and Set the solo control preference Globally, by Song or by Pattern.
use the DATA knob to adjust the various settings.
Accent Preference
Enhanced Mode
Set the accent control preference Globally, by Song or by Pattern.
This mode, when turned on activates the extra controls for the Bass Drum
(P.DEPTH and PITCH) and the Hi-Hat pitch.

To turn Enhanced Mode on:

1. Enter the PREFS settings.
2. Find Enhanced Mode by pressing the TAP/HOLD button.
3. Use the DATA control to turn on.
18 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

11.6 FILTER 11.8 RAND (Random)

The filter CUTOFF knob setting can be recorded as automation and programmed This function allows randomly played sounds to trigger on a pre-selected group
into a pattern to create sweeping textures and effects as described in section 10. of voices on any pre-programmed step that you wish to have the ability to hear
random voices triggering. This can be used to create indiscriminate variations
into patterns, for example, random tom fills.
11.7 POLY (Polymetric)
Polymeter (poly) is the simultaneous use of two or more conflicting rhythms. In To add to a pattern:
this unit, it is possible to change the number of steps played back per voice to
1. Press SETTINGS.
create interesting overlapping rhythms. For example, 16 steps of Bass Drum can
be played while 15 steps of Snare which will make the pattern evolve over time. 2. Press RAND (STEP BUTTON 8).
It really must be experimented with to hear its full potential.
3. Pick the voices you want with the SELECT buttons.
Each of the 12 voices can be set to a different Polymeter which will work across all
4. Use the step keys (1-64 via length navigation) to apply the random
64 steps of a pattern. This lets you create large evolving percussive patterns that
action on the steps you require.
can evolve over time.
5. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.
To enter Poly Mode:
1. Press SETTINGS.
NOTE: Random step settings are stored on a per pattern basis.
2. Press POLY (STEP BUTTON 7).
3. Use the DATA control to activate Poly Mode.
4. Select the voice you wish to reduce the number of steps 11.9 PROB (Probability)
(this is none destructive).
The PROB setting allows you to adjust the probability of predefined steps playing
5. All the step LED’s will illuminate to show the current status of the as programmed. This Probability function is great for adding a human feel to
selected voices Polymeter settings. patterns by settings how likely a programmed note will play. This simulates how
a drummer could miss playing a drum.
6. Select the step key you wish to use to reduce the pattern playback. If
a pattern is 32, 48, or 64 steps long use the <</>> keys to navigate The range can be set from 0% to 100%. As a guide 0% means a programmed
to the step you wish to use. voice won’t trigger, 50% allows voices to be played around half of the time, while
100% will trigger the voice as programmed.
7. Flashing LEDs indicate any steps that will not be triggered.
By default, all steps in a pattern are not enabled to be controlled by the PROB
8. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.
setting. Probability can be turned on and off per step as described below:
To return to normal pattern playback turn poly mode off or press the step key
which is the end of the chosen pattern length i.e. 16, 32, 48 or 64 steps.
1. Press SETTINGS.
If you are using Poly mode with a pattern containing more than 16 steps then
all voices which are playing every step, including accent, must have all the used 2. Press PROB (STEP BUTTON 9).
steps selected with poly mode on in order that the pattern plays correctly.
3. Select the voice you wish to give probability to.
For example, if you have a pattern programmed of 32 steps. Setting poly mode
4. Use the step keys and length navigation arrows to enable probability
“On” a voice, then setting the range to 48 steps, then setting all the other voices
on the steps (up to 64 steps) you require.
to “poly mode on” and to the length of the pattern (in this case 32) will result
in the last 16 steps of the voice set to 48 steps being silent if nothing has been 5. Adjust the probability range with the DATA control to taste (0%
programmed there (you could also fill the last 16 steps for more sonic interest). If causes the voice to not trigger where as 100% signifies the voice will
you don't set your non-Poly voices to the nominal pattern length the pattern will trigger as programmed).
only loop the first 16 steps.
6. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.

Note: Individual voices can have Poly lengths that are longer than the nominal
Probability step settings are stored per pattern, but the amount (0%-100%) is
pattern length, for extra rhythmic variation.
controlled globally.
POLY mode defaults to be stored per pattern.
PROB programmed steps are shown in white and adding PROB on a step
Note: With poly mode on Step Repeat does not function. turns it red.
19 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

11.10 FLAM 11.12 Step Size Preference

Flam is the simulated effect of a drummer hitting a note with 2 sticks. The The step size of a rhythm pattern refers to the note duration of a step. When
amount of flam dictates the length of time between the next hit after the first. composing rhythms, the basic unit of duration (in time) is a 'bar'. The step sizes
Range from 0-24 adjusts the width of the flam and is set globally. you can choose on your RD-9 are 1/8, 1/8T, 1/16. 1/16T, and 1/32.
By default, all steps in a pattern are not enabled to be controlled by the FLAM If you choose the step size 1/16, the duration of a single step is 1/16th of a bar.
setting. Flam can be turned on and off per step as described below: This means that a 16 step pattern has a duration of exactly one bar.

1. Press SETTINGS. The durations are as follows:

2. Press FLAM (STEP BUTTON 10). • 1/8 = 1/8th bar.
3. Select the voice you wish to add flam on. • 1/8T = 1/12th bar
4. Use the step keys (1-64 via length navigation arrows) to enable flam • 1/16 = 1//16th bar (default)
on the steps you require.
• 1/16T = 1/24th bar
5. Adjust the flam range with the DATA control to taste
• 1/32 = 1/32th bar
(0 = No Flam. 24 = Longest flam length).
6. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.
To change the step size preference:
1. Press SETTINGS
The global setting can also be changed by selecting FLAM with the DATA MODE
button and using the DATA knob to adjust the flam length between hits. 2. Press the STEP BUTTON associated with the step size you require
(1/8, 1/8T, 1/16, 1/16T or 1/32).
FLAM programmed steps are shown in white and adding FLAM on a step
turns it red. 3. Press SETTINGS twice to exit.

11.11 RPT (Note repeat)

Note repeat lets you program a step to repeat either 1,2,4 or 8 times. This can 11.13 SYNC
be used to add extra ratchet style rolls to voices on a pre-defined step (1-64) by
completing the following:
1. Press SETTINGS.
2. Press RPT (step key 11).
3. Select the voice to which you wish to add repeats.
Pressing the SYNC button multiple times scrolls through the 4 Sync option
4. Select the step key (1-64 via length navigation arrows) to enable
available.
repeat on that step. Each step in a pattern can have a different
repeat value.
5. Select the number of repeats (1,2,4 or 8). 1. INT (internal) – The sync is set by the unit’s internal clock.
6. Turn on the repeat with the NOTE REPEAT button. 2. MIDI – The sync is taken from the MIDI IN port. A MIDI start message
is required in order for playback to start.
7. Select the next step to add more repeats or
press SETTINGS twice to exit. 3. USB – The sync is taken from the USB port. A message is required in
order for playback to start.
4. TRIG (clock) – The sync is taken from the SYNC IN port. Clock start
Note repeats can also be recorded live in step mode:
signal is required, or playback can be started manually.
1. Press RECORD while a pattern is playing in step mode. (Sync In jack has start / stop signal on ring and clock on tip).
2. A NOTE REPEAT can be recorded for any voice programmed
on that step.

Note: A voice will be programmed on a step in order to use note repeat. When a
step is removed with Note repeat, the repeat will also be removed.
Note repeat can also be programmed:
Step 1: enable note repeat and select a repeat number in STEP mode.
Step 2: select any voice you want.
Step 3: hold STEP number button then press TRIGGER.
Note repeat can be added with or without step record on with this method.
20 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

11.14 DATA MODE 12. Software Updates

(1) (2) (3) (4)
The RD-9 SYNTHTRIBE app can be downloaded by going to www.musictribe.com.
Please follow the steps on the website and updater to update your RD-9.
To check the current firmware version:
1. Press SETTINGS.
2. While holding the TAP/HOLD button press PREFS (STEP BUTTON 5).
3. The LCD will display the firmware version.
The DATA MODE button toggles between the four available parameters and uses
4. Press SETTINGS to exit.
the DATA control to adjust parameters:
1. TEMPO – sets the speed of the current pattern or song. Depending
on how the RD-9 is configured will result in how tempo is affected. It is possible to perform a full factory reset by following these steps, please note
For example, if the Tempo parameter is set to global, all songs and this clears all songs, settings and pattern data and is not reversable.
patterns will be forced to the tempo set by the DATA control. See the
TEMPO section for more information.
To reset to default factory settings:
2. SWING – changes pattern step timings by quantizing each drum
beat to the nearest step and then delaying the playback of every 1. Press settings.
other step in the pattern. The DATA control adjusts the Swing range
2. Hold Tap/Hold and press step key 16
from 25% negative swing to 50% (straight), then on to 75%
(Full Swing). 3. The display will now say Wait.
3. PROB (probability) – In PROB settings menu you can select the 4. When the factory reset is complete the
steps as described earlier in this manual. The global settings allow RD-9 will reboot automatically.
you to adjust the probability that these steps will play programmed
note events. This is a number can be set anywhere in between
0%-100% range to simulate a human element to patterns.
4. FLAM – Part of a pattern of RD-9, consisting of a stroke preceded
by a grace note. Range 0-24 adjust the width of the flam. Flam is
the simulated effect of a drummer hitting a note with 2 sticks. The
amount of flam dictates the length of time between the next hit after
the first and can be programmed per step.
21 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

13. Parameters
There are three different types of data files used by the RD-9. The contents of these file types are described herein.

Global Settings File

All of the RD-9’s Settings and Preferences are stored in the Global Settings file. This file is loaded from Storage Memory when the unit is powered on. The exact
contents of the file are described below:

Settings
Settings in the Global Settings file are automatically saved back to Storage Memory whenever they are changed.

Setting Name Description Values

Data Version From time to time, new versions of the RD-9 firmware will be released. This firmware will
contain both bug fixes and new features. Additional parameters may be added to the Global
Settings Data file to support those new features. The Global Settings Data file is therefore
versioned to guarantee compatibility between firmware releases.
Product Variant The RD-9 is one of a number of Behringer products that sequence songs. This parameter is used
to distinguish between RD-9 Song Data files and other song data files.
Last Loaded Song Each time a song is loaded into the sequencer it is logged. When you power on the unit, the 1 – 16
last song to be logged before the unit was powered off will be loaded back into the sequencer.
Last Loaded Pattern Each time a pattern is loaded in the sequencer it is logged. When you power on the unit, 1 – 16
the last pattern to be logged before the unit was powered of will be loaded back into the
sequencer.
Device ID Each RD unit in a system can have its own unique ID number. 1 – 16
Clock Source Press Sync to cycle through the 4 clock source options. INT, MIDI, USB or CLK
Analog Clock Mode Choose the type of clock that the clock input follows. 1, 2, 4, 24 and 48PP
MIDI RX Channel Set the MIDI in receive channel. 1 – 16
MIDI TX Channel Set the MIDI out transmit channel. 1 – 16
MIDI to USB Thru Set MIDI in to send to USB Thru. On/Off
MIDI Soft Thru Send all MIDI in Data to the MIDI out port. On/Off
USB TX Channel Set the USB MIDI receive channel. 1 – 16
USB to MIDI Thru Set the USB MIDI transmit channel. 1 – 16
Voice Note Mappings (1 - 11) Send the USB MIDI in to the MIDI thru port. On/Off
Song Chain Mode Voice MIDI note map. Can be changes from the default if desired. various
Enhanced Mode Chain songs together for live performance. 0 – Hold,
1 – Loop,
2 – Stop
Trigger Out Assign Set the enhanced mode. On/Off
Set the trigger out to follow which voice 0 – Bass Drum,
1 – Snare Drum,
2 – LOW TOM,
3 – MID TOM,
4 – HI TOM,
5 – RIM SHOT,
6 – CLAP
22 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Preferences
In addition to the Settings described above, there are a number of Preferences that can be used to specify whether certain sequencer parameters will persist on a
Global, Song or Pattern basis. Just like the Settings, the Preferences in the Global Settings file are automatically saved back to Storage Memory whenever they are
changed.

Preference Name Description Values

Tempo Preference This preference selects which Tempo parameter is used by the sequencer; Global Tempo, 0 = Song,
Song Tempo or Pattern Tempo. 1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Swing Preference This preference selects which Swing parameter is used by the sequencer; Global Swing, 0 = Song,
Song Swing or Pattern Swing. 1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Probability Preference This preference selects which Probability parameter is used by the sequencer; Global 0 = Song,
Probability, Song Probability or Pattern Probability. 1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Flam Preference This preference selects which Flam parameter is used by the sequencer; Global Flam, 0 = Song,
Song Flam or Pattern Flam. 1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Filter Mode Preference This preference selects which Filter Mode parameter is used to set the mode 0 = Song,
RD-9’s Analog Filter. 1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Filter Enable Preference This preference selects which Filter Enable parameter is used to enable or disable by the 0 = Song,
Analog Filter on the RD-9’s FX bus.. 1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Filter Automation Preference This preference selects which Filter Automation parameter is used by the sequencer. It also 0 = Song,
selects which set of Filter Step Values are used when the automation is active. 1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Polymeter Preference This preference selects which Polymeter parameter is used by the sequencer. 0 = Song,
1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Step Size Preference This preference selects which Step Size parameter is used by the sequencer. 0 = Song,
1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Auto-Advance Preference This preference selects which Auto-Advance parameter is used by the sequencer. Auto- 0 = Song,
Advance is a function of a Song but not of a Pattern. This preference is therefore limited to 1 = Global
Song and Global.
Auto-Scroll Preference This preference selects which Auto-Scroll parameter is used by the sequencer. Auto-Scroll 1 = Global,
is a function of a Pattern but not of a Song. This preference is therefore limited to Pattern 2 = Pattern
and Global.
FX Bus Preference This preference selects which set FX Bus assignments are used to send to voices to the 0 = Song,
FX Bus. 1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Mute Preference This preference selects which set of Mute Bus assignments are used to mute the 0 = Song,
RD-9’s voices. 1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Solo Preference This preference selects which set of Solo Bus assignments are used to solo the 0 = Song,
RD-9’s voices. 1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
Accent Preference This preference selects which Accent parameter is used to set the accent level 0 = Song,
1 = Global,
2 = Pattern
23 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Global Parameters
The RD-9 has many parameters that can be tweaked to make your rhythm’s more interesting. The Global Settings file contains the following list of parameters. When
these parameters are in use (i.e. the corresponding Preference is set to Global), they remain fixed, even when new Songs and Patterns are loaded into the sequencer.
As is the case for the Settings and Preference, Global Parameters are automatically saved back to Storage Memory whenever they are changed.

Preference Name Description Values

Global Tempo Sets the tempo globally if global mode preference is selected. 20 – 240 BPM
Global Swing Sets the Swing value globally if global mode preference is selected. 50 – 75 %
Global Probability Sets the probability a sound will play globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 – 100 %
Global Flam Sets the flam length globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 - 24
Global Filter Mode Sets the filter to LPF or HPF globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 = LPF,
1 = HPF
Global Filter Enable Sets the filter on/off globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 = Off,
1 = On
Global Filter Automation Turns filter automation on/off globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Global Filter Step Values Sets the filter level per step globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 – 255
(1 - 64)
Global Polymeter Turn polymeter on/off globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 = Off,
1 = On
Global Step Size Sets the Step size globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 = 1/8th,
1 = 1/8th Tr,
2 = 1/16th,
3 = 1/16th Tr,
4 = 1/32ndth

Global Auto-Advance Sets whether a song will advance to the next song or not globally if global mode 0 = Off,
preference is selected. 1 = On
Global Auto-Scroll Sets whether Auto Scroll is on/off globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 = Off,
1 = On
Global FX Assignments Sets which voices are assigned to the FX bus globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Global Mute Assignments Sets which voices are muted globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Global Solo Assignments Sets which voices are soloed globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Global Accent Mode Sets the Accent Mode to Global or Independent globally if global mode 0 =Global,
preference is selected. 1 = Independent
Global Accent Values Sets the Accent Value per voice globally if global mode preference is selected. 0 - 255
(1 - 10)
24 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Global Song Data Files

Each of the 16 songs stored in the RD-9’s Storage Memory has a Song Data file. When a song is loaded into the sequencer from Storage Memory, this is the file that is
loaded. The song loaded into the sequencer at any given time is called the Live Song. Changes the user makes to the Live Song Data file do not persist, the file must be
saved back to the Storage Memory before another Song Data file is loaded.

Song Arrangement
All of the data in a song arrangement is contained in its Song Data file. These data is shown below:

Parameter Name Description Values

Song Data Version From time to time, new versions of the RD-9 firmware will be released. This firmware
will contain both bug fixes and new features. Additional parameters may be added to the
Song Data file to support those new features. The Song Data file is therefore versioned to
guarantee compatibility between firmware releases.
Product Variant The RD-9 is part of a series of Behringer products that sequence songs. This parameter is
used to distinguish between RD-9 Song Data files and other song data files.
Song Sections (1 – 16) A song arrangement can have up to 16 Song Sections. Any of the 16 associated patterns Pattern Number (0 – 15)
can be loaded into a section. There is a parameter for each section.
Pattern Repeats (1 – 16) When a pattern is loaded into a Song Section it can be repeated a number of times. There No. of Repeats (1 - 100)
is a parameter for each section.
Next Song When Song Chaining is turned on, another song can be automatically cued to play after Song No. (0 – 15)
the Live Song has finished.
25 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Song Parameters
Some of the parameters in the Song Data file are comparable to the Global Parameters. When these parameters are in use (i.e. the corresponding Preference is set to
Song), loading a new song will trigger the corresponding change in the sequencer. A tempo change is one such example.

Preference Name Description Values

Tempo The tempo of the song is stored. 20 – 240 BPM

Swing The Swing level is stored. 50 – 75 %
Probability The probability of a step being heard is stored per song. 0 – 100 %
Flam The flam level is stored per song 0 - 24
Filter Mode Filter Mode is stored per song, either LPF or HPF. 0 = LPF,
1 = HPF
Filter Enable Whether the filter is on/off per song. 0 = Off,
1 = On
Filter Automation Automation of the filter is stored per song. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Filter Step Values Filter step values per song are stored. 0 – 255
(1 - 64)
Polymeter Polymeter is either on/off per song. 0 = Off,
1 = On
Step Size Step size is stored for the song. 0 = 1/8th,
1 = 1/8th Tr,
2 = 1/16th,
3 = 1/16th Tr,
4 = 1/32ndth
Auto Advance Whether or not the song will auto advance to the next or not is stored per song. 0 = Off,
1 = On
FX Bus Sends Whether or not the FX bus send is active or not, stored per song. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Mute Voices Which voices are muted, stored by song. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Solo Voices Which voices are soloed, stored by song. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Accent Mode Accent Mode is stored per song. 0 = Global,
1 = Independent
Accent Values (1 - 10) Accent Values are stored per song. Global Accent Values
(1 - 10)
26 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Pattern Data Files

Each of the 16 patterns associated with a song has its own Pattern Data file. When a song is loaded from Storage Memory, these 16 Pattern Data files are loaded in
addition to the Song Data file. These 16 patterns are called the Live Patterns. Changes made to the Live Pattern Data files do not persist. The files must be saved back to
the Storage Memory before another song and its associated patterns are loaded.

Pattern Data
All of the data in a pattern are contained in its Pattern Data file. The data is shown below:

Preference Name Description Values

Pattern Data Version From time to time, new versions of the RD-9 firmware will be released. This firmware
will contain both bug fixes and new features. Additional parameters may be added to
the Pattern Data file to support those new features. The Pattern Data file is therefore
versioned to guarantee compatibility between firmware releases.
Product Variant The RD-9 is part of a series of Behringer products that sequence songs. This parameter is
used to distinguish between RD-9 Pattern Data files and other pattern data files.
Bass Drum Step Values The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Bass Drum track: *See description below
(1 - 64) Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off. Step
repeat size.
Snare Drum Step Values The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Snare Drum track: *See description below
(1 - 64) Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off. Step
repeat size.
Low Tom Step Values The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Low Tom track: *See description below
(1 - 64) Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off. Step
repeat size.
Mid Tom Step Values The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Mid Tom track: *See description below
(1 - 64) Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off and
Step repeat size.
Hi Tom Step Values The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Hi Tom track: *See description below
(1 - 64) Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off and
Step repeat size.
Rim Shot Step Values The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Rim Shot track: *See description below
(1 - 64) Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off and
Step repeat size.
Hand Clap Step Values The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Hand Clap track: *See description below
(1 - 64) Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off and
Step repeat size.
Closed Hat Step Values The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Closed Hat track: *See description below
(1 - 64) Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off and
Step repeat size.
Open Hat Step Values The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Open Hat track: *See description below
(1 - 64) Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off and
Step repeat size.
Crash Step Values The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Crash track: *See description below
(1 - 64) Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off and
Step repeat size.

Ride Step Values The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Ride track: *See description below
(1 - 64) Events include Step On/Off, Step Prob on/off, step flam on/off, Step Repeat on/off and
Step repeat size.
27 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Pattern Length The step length of pattern. 1 - 64

Poly Length (1-11) The step length of each tracks. 1 - 64
Reserved
Random Tracks Random of each tracks is enable or disable 0 = Disable,
(1-11) 1 = Enable
Random Steps The sequencer events triggered on the 64 steps of the Random Steps track. 0 = Inactive,
(1 – 64) 1 = Active

* Information useful for power users wishing to implement their own editors. Each of the 64 bytes in a track has its bits set/cleared as follows:
Bit 0 STEP_BYTE_MASK_ON_OFF_BIT – 1=Step On, 0=Step Off
Bit 1 STEP_BYTE_MASK_ACCENT_ON_OFF_BIT – 1=Step On, 0=Step Off
Bit 2 STEP_BYTE_MASK_PROBABILITY_BIT – 1=Step On, 0=Step Off
Bit 3 STEP_BYTE_MASK_FLAM_BIT – 1=Step On, 0=Step Off
Bit 4 STEP_BYTE_MASK_NOTE_REPEAT_ON_OFF_BIT – 1=Step On, 0=Step Off
Bit 5 STEP_BYTE_MASK_NOTE_REPEAT_LS_BIT 00 = Repeat 1, 01 = Repeat 2, 10 = Repeat 4, 11 = Repeat 8
Bit 6 STEP_BYTE_MASK_NOTE_REPEAT_MS_BIT 00 = Repeat 1, 01 = Repeat 2, 10 = Repeat 4, 11 = Repeat 8
Bit 7 RESERVED
28 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Pattern Parameters
Some of the parameters in the Pattern Data file are comparable to the Global Parameters. When these parameters are in use (i.e. the corresponding Preference is set to
Pattern), selecting a new pattern for playback will trigger the corresponding change in the sequencer. A change to the Step Size is one such example.

Preference Name Description Values

Tempo The tempo of the pattern is stored. 20 – 240 BPM

Swing The Swing level is stored per pattern. 25% - 75%
Probability The probability of a step being heard is stored per pattern. 0 – 100 %
Flam The flam level is stored per pattern 0 - 24
Filter Mode Filter Mode is stored per pattern, either LPF or HPF. 0 = LPF,
1 = HPF
Filter Enable Whether the filter is on/off per pattern. 0 = Off,
1 = On
Filter Automation Automation of the filter is stored per pattern. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Filter Step Values (1 - 64) Filter step values per pattern are stored. 0 – 255
Polymeter Polymeter is either on/off per pattern. 0 = Off,
1 = On
Step Size Step size is stored for the pattern. 0 = 1/8th,
1 = 1/8th Tr,
2 = 1/16th,
3 = 1/16th Tr,
4 = 1/32ndth
Auto Advance Whether or not the song will auto advance to the next or not is stored per pattern. 0 = Off,
1 = On
FX Bus Sends Whether or not the FX bus send is active or not, stored per pattern. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Mute Voices Which voices are muted, stored by pattern. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Solo Voices Which voices are soloed, stored by pattern. 0 = Inactive,
1 = Active
Accent Mode Accent Mode is stored per pattern. 0 = Global,
1 = Independent
Accent Values (1 - 10) Accent Values are stored per pattern. Global Accent Values
(1 - 10)
29 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

14. DAW Control

The RD-9 can be used with a DAW in two main ways.
The first method is using either MIDI or MIDI over USB to trigger the sounds on the RD-9. This allows complex programming from your computer using the note
numbers as described in section 11.4 MAP.
The 2nd way is to use Midi Time Code (MTC) to sync the RD-9 to your project. Different DAW packages work in different ways. Below is an example how to set up the
RD-9 in Logic X. Make sure the RD-9 is on its own MIDI channel in order not to trigger other sounds.
Preferences>MIDI>SYNC>MIDI Sync Project Settings>MIDI
In the Destination list select the RD-9. Turn the Clock on and select MTC. A delay may need to be used depending on DAW settings. On the RD-9 select USB from the
Sync options. Now the RD-9 and project will play back together.
30 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

15. RD-9 Set-up Example

Hook-Up Example Studio

Studio Monitors

Audio Input

Computer
USB out
Mixer

Mono Audio Output

USB in

Trigger
Output

Power Trigger Audio Output

Adaptor Input

Headphones
31 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Using an External Processor

Studio Monitors

Mono Input

External Processor

Audio Output Audio Intput

Mixer

Mono Output To Return Input Individiual Voice Output

Power
Adaptor
32 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Using an External Mixer

In this example, the bass drum, snare and mono outputs are connected to a mixer.
The signals from the bass drum and snare drum are removed from the mono output when a jack is inserted in the individual.
33 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

16. Specifications
Voices
Number of sounds 11
Type
Bass drum, Snare drum, Low tom, Mid tom, Hi tom,
Analog
Rim shot, Clap
Digital (Sampling) Closed hat, Open hat , Crash, Ride
Number of simultaneous voices 10
Sound controls
Accent Level
Bass drum Tune, level, attack, decay, pitch, pitch depth
Snare drum Tune, level, tone, snappy
Low, mid, hi tom Level, tuning, decay
Rim shot / clap Level
Hi hat Tune, level, ch decay, oh decay
Cymbal Crash level, ride level, crash tune, ride tune
Select buttons 11 Voice select buttons
Connectivity
Outputs
Phones 1 x 1/4" TRS, stereo, 8 Ω impedance
Mono 1 x 1/4" TRS, servo-balanced
Voice out 10 x 1/4" TS, unbalanced
MIDI In, Out & Thru 3 x 5-pin DIN
Trigger outs 3 x +5 V, 2 ms pulse
Sync in / out 2 x 1/8" TRS (Tip is clock and Ring is the start message)
USB Class compliant USB 2.0, type B
Windows 7 or higher
Supported operating systems
Mac OS X 10.6.8 or higher
Volume controls Master, phones
Return (Input) 1 x 1/4" TRS, balanced
Wave Designer
Bus 10 voices, independently assignable
Controls
Attack -15 to +15 dB, adjustable
Sustain -24 to +24 dB, adjustable
Send button On/off, switchable
Sig LED Red
Analog Filter
Type State variable, 12 dB slope
Cutoff 10 Hz - 15 kHz, adjustable
Resonance 0 - 10, adjustable
HPF button LPF / HPF mode, switchable
On button On / off, switchable
Sync Section
Mode selector INT / MIDI / USB / TRIG, selectable
Sequencer Section
Edit buttons Save, copy, erase and dump
Mode buttons Song, pattern and step
Control Encoder for data editing
Playback controls Tap / hold, record, stop, play / pause
Data mode Tempo / swing / prob / flam, selectable
On / off, rewind, length (16 / 32 / 48 / 64, selectable),
Auto scroll
fast forward
On / off, repeat division (1 / 2 / 4 / 8, selectable), step
Trigger
repeat, note repeat
Track Mute / solo, selectable
Step buttons 16 step enter buttons
34 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Settings
Switches Auto or Normal
Autofill
Autofill Enter autofill selection mode
Songs / Storage
Song mode Chain any of the 16 songs together for full sets
Pattern / Storage
Capacity 16 songs, 16 patterns each
Steps 64 steps
Power Supply
External power adapter 18 V DC, 1000 mA
Power consumption 14.4 W typical
Environmental
Operating temperature range 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F)
Physical
78 x 477 x 264 mm
Dimensions (H x W x D)
(3.1 x 18.8 x 10.4")
Weight 3.0 kg (6.6 lbs)
35 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

17. Glossary Harmonics: A series of integer-related sine waves at varying levels creating
different timbres. Waveforms (other than a pure sinusoidal) generate various
harmonics which help define the character of the sound.
RD-9 GLOSSARY
Hertz (Hz): A unit of frequency equal to one cycle of a wave per second.
This glossary provides an explanation of useful symbols, terms and abbreviations. High Pass Filter (HPF): A filter that attenuates lower frequencies from a signal,
leaving the higher frequencies unaffected.
Hum: Undesirable low-frequency tone (typically 50 or 60 Hz) present in a signal
AC: Alternating Current
due to grounding problems or proximity to a power source or power cables.
Analog: Something which is proportional or similar to something else. In
Impedance (Z): Opposition to the flow of alternating current in a circuit,
the case of the drum machine, audio electronic circuits are another form of
measured in Ohms.
air pressure waves. Analog signals contain distortions from the components,
topology, circuits and designs which are often perceived as warmer and more Kilohertz (kHz): A unit of frequency equal to one thousand cycles of a wave per
natural than their digitally generated counterparts. second.
Attack: Increase or decrease the initial transient of the signal. Latency: A delay introduced by processing. Measured by the time it takes to
produce a signal after a request has been made. In a synthesizer, it is the time
Auto Scroll: Follows the play head to show current step position.
taken to produce a note after a key has been played. In an audio interface, it is
Balanced Audio: A type of audio connection that uses the three wires in a cable used to measure the time it takes for an input signal to reach the processor, or for
as part of a phase-cancelling arrangement to boost the signal and reduce noise. a signal from the processor to reach the output.
Bass: Lower frequencies in a signal ranging from 60 Hz to 250 Hz (Approximately Level: Used to describe the magnitude of a sound, often relative to an arbitrary
B1 to B3). reference.
Beats Per Minute (BPM): Used to describe the tempo of a composition by Length: Defines the number of steps in a pattern.
specifying the number of beats which should occur in every minute.
Line Level: A nominal operating level used by audio equipment. Professional
Cent: Unit of measurement for pitch tuning. There are one hundred cents in a line level is normally +4 dBu and consumer line level is -10 dBu.
semitone.
Looping: Automatically restarting a function at the end of a period of time or
Chain: A function to link songs or pattern information together. defined cycle, to create a continuous loop.
Control Voltage (CV): A voltage signal used to control any parameter. This was Low Pass Filter (LPF): A filter that attenuates higher frequencies from a signal,
common on drum machines before the advent of MIDI. leaving the lower frequencies unaffected.
Cut-Off Frequency: The frequency which a filter is set to. Beyond this frequency Map: How MIDI note numbers are assigned to voices.
(in a low-pass filter, the most common), the sound is cut off (attenuated) at a rate
Master: Overall volume control.
set by the slope of the filter response curve.
Meter: Visual device to indicate the level of a signal.
Default: An initial value for parameter, i.e., the value before any changes have
been made. MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface): A technical standard that
describes a protocol, digital interface and connectors and allows a wide variety of
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW): A computer-based recording system. More
electronic musical instruments, computers and other related hardware/software
commonly used to describe the software package used to record, process and
devices to connect and communicate.
mix.
MIDI Clock: A clock signal which is broadcast over MIDI to ensure that devices
Dump: To send (dump) the contents of the memory of the device over the MIDI
are synchronized. Also known as MIDI Beat Clock or MIDI Timing Clock.
cables as "SysEx" information.
MIDI Message: Data or information transmitted from one MIDI device to
Flam: The simulated effect of a drummer hitting a note with 2 sticks. The
another. Each MIDI message contains at least two numbers: one that identifies
amount of flam dictates the length of time between the next hit after the first.
the type of message being sent, and another which represents a value for the
Filter: A device that attenuates certain frequencies while letting other selected type of message.
frequencies through. Using a filter to reduce harmonics, changes the timbre or
Midrange: Frequencies in a signal ranging from 250 Hz to 5 kHz (Approximately
colour of the sound.
B3 to D#8).
Gain: The amount of signal level increase provided by an amplifier stage.
Mix: The balance of level between one signal and another.
Gate (Synthesizer): A signal used to trigger an event, such as a note or an
Mixer: A device that blends input signals into composite signals for output.
envelope.
Mode: The selection of song, pattern or step edit.
Gate (Dynamics): A device used to cut off the level of a signal when it falls
below a specified threshold. Can be used to cut background noise, control reverb Monitors: Studio quality loudspeakers, providing an accurate representation of
tails, or creatively to produce chopping type effects. the audio signals.
Global: The settings and parameters which govern the general operation of the Mono: A single signal.
drum machine and are not directly associated with the voice engines.
Mute: Function that allows a signal to be silenced.
N/A: Abbreviation for "not applicable" or "not available".
Ohm (Ω): Unit of electrical resistance.
36 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

Output: The signal sent out by a device or process. Also used to describe the Timbre: The tone, character, or aesthetic qualities of a sound.
physical socket where a signal leaves a device.
Treble: Frequencies in a signal ranging from 5 kHz to 20 kHz (approximately D#8
Parameter: A setting whose value can be changed. to above C10).
The result is a sweeping effect similar to a flanger but smoother and often more Trigger: Activation of a function, such as the Note Repeat or Step Repeat.
natural sounding.
Unbalanced Audio: A type of audio connection that uses two wires in a cable
Pattern: A rhythmic pattern, or repeated rhythm establishing the meter and and does not offer the noise rejection qualities of a balanced system.
groove through the pulse and subdivision
Universal Serial Bus (USB): A "plug and play" interface that provides a fast
Pitch: A quality of sound that makes it possible to judge if a sound is higher or connection between a computer and peripherals.
lower than another. Volt (V): A unit of electrical potential differential or electromotive force. A
difference in charge between two points in a circuit. This difference, when
play head: A moving white LED in the step timeline that represents the position
combined with the rate of the charge (current) allows for the control of many
in the pattern.
analog circuits that “synthesize” sound.
Polyrhythm (Poly): The simultaneous use of two or more conflicting rhythms.
Voice: A sound which can play a single note at a time.
Post: The point for accessing audio just after it leaves a specific component or
stage. For example, Post-Fader audio is affected by the fader.
Power Supply Unit (PSU): The component in a system which is responsible for
supplying and managing power.
PPQ: The smallest unit of time used for sequencing note and automation events,
both by step sequencers and in the MIDI standard.
Pre: The point for accessing audio just before it reaches a specific component or
stage. For example, Pre-Fader audio is not affected by the fader.
Probability (Prob): The extent to which a programmed step is likely to happen.
Random: Does not follow a definite plan or pattern.
Resonance: The emphasis/boost of frequencies around the cut-off point just
before attenuation starts to occur. As resonance increases, it will reach a point
where the filter will start to self-oscillate, producing a signal even when there is
no input.
Return: A way to add audio into the signal path after the FX bus.
Send: Select which sounds are sent to the FX bus for further processing.
Sequencer: A programmable device or module used to arrange/sequence timed
events into musical patterns and songs.
Sig (Signal): Shows presence of audio.
Step: A step is one stage in a sequence or pattern.
Solo: To isolate a chosen voice in playback.
Song: A collection of patterns played back in a predefined order.
Sub-Bass: Frequencies in a signal ranging from 10 Hz to 60 Hz (lower than C0 to
approximately B1).
Sustain: acts in a similar way to a compressor, allowing the peaks to carry
longer before decay. The effect can also be used to reduce the sustain for a more
staccato sound.
Swing: The Swing function as we now know it – originally known as ‘shuffle’, a
term still used to approximate the effect of a human drummer playing in swing
timing by quantizing each drum beat to the nearest step and then delaying the
playback of every other step in the pattern.
Synchronization (Sync): Coordination of timing between devices.
Sync (Tempo): A function where a cyclical event such as an LFO is synchronized
to a tempo value.
Tap: A way to enter step information.
Tempo: The speed at which a composition is played, usually expressed in beats
per minute (BPM).
37 RHYTHM DESIGNER RD-9 User Manual

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS
COMMISSION COMPLIANCE
INFORMATION

RD-9

Responsible Party Name: Music Tribe Commercial NV Inc.

Address: 5270 Procyon Street,
Las Vegas NV 89118,
United States
Phone Number: +1 702 800 8290

RD-9
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B
digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined
by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
Important information:
Changes or modifications to the equipment not expressly approved by Music Tribe
can void the user’s authority to use the equipment.
We Hear You