1. Introduction
The Behringer RD-9 Rhythm Designer is an analog drum machine designed to deliver classic drum sounds with modern enhancements. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your RD-9 unit.
2. Safety Instructions
- Read these instructions.
- Keep these instructions.
- Heed all warnings.
- Follow all instructions.
- Do not use this apparatus near water.
- Clean only with dry cloth.
- Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
- Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
- Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
- Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
- Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
- Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
3. Setup
3.1 Unpacking and Initial Inspection
Carefully unpack your Behringer RD-9 unit. Ensure all components listed in the 'What's in the Box' section are present and undamaged. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your retailer immediately.
3.2 What's in the Box
- Behringer RD-9 Analog Drum Machine
- Power Adapter (18V DC)
- Snare
- Bass Drum
3.3 Power Connection
Connect the included 18V DC power adapter to the 'POWER' input on the rear panel of the RD-9. Plug the adapter into a suitable power outlet. The unit will power on automatically.
3.4 Audio Connections
The RD-9 offers versatile audio output options:
- Main Output: Connect a standard 1/4-inch mono jack cable from the 'MAIN' output to your mixer or audio interface for a summed mono signal.
- Headphone Output: Use a full-size stereo headphone jack for monitoring. This output has its own volume control. Note that the headphone output is completely dry and does not include effects. Individual outputs will still be audible on headphones even if routed separately.
- Individual Outputs: Ten full-size 1/4-inch mono outputs are provided, one for each instrument (Ride, Crash, Hi Hat, Clap, Rim Shot, Hi Tom, Mid Tom, Low Tom, Snare, Bass). Plugging into an individual output removes that instrument from the main mix output. These individual outputs are not routed through the filter or wave designer and are not affected by the main volume knob.
Visual Aid: Behringer RD-9 Rear Panel Connections
Image: Rear panel of the Behringer RD-9, illustrating all input and output ports for power, audio, MIDI, USB, and trigger signals.
3.5 MIDI and Sync Connections
The RD-9 supports various synchronization options:
- MIDI In/Out/Thru: Connect to other MIDI devices for external control or to control other instruments.
- USB: A USB B-type connector is provided for MIDI communication only, not for audio.
- Trigger Outs: Three full-size 1/4-inch trigger outputs are available for triggering external gear. Trigger out 1 and 2 are permanently tied to the Rim Shot and Hand Clap respectively. Trigger out 3 is freely assignable to any of the analog instruments.
- Sync In/Out: Mini-jack sync connections allow for synchronization with compatible analog gear.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Basic Operation
The RD-9 features a user-friendly interface with dedicated controls for each drum sound and various performance features.
Video: Behringer RD-9 Review and Overview
Video: A detailed review of the Behringer RD-9, covering its features, sounds, and functionality.
4.2 Sound Generation and Shaping
The RD-9 is a hybrid drum machine, utilizing samples for crash, ride, and hi-hats, while other sounds are generated by analog circuitry. It offers two modes for sound behavior:
- Authentic Mode: Each drum sound behaves exactly like the original 909.
- Enhanced Mode: Provides three extra controls for deeper sound shaping: Bass Drum Pitch Depth, Bass Drum Pitch, and Hi-Hat Tune. These controls can be completely deactivated by switching to Authentic Mode if you prefer the original sound.
The unit also features an Analog Filter and a Wave Designer effect section:
- Analog Filter: Can be toggled between low-pass and high-pass. Use the Cutoff and Resonance controls to perform filter sweeps or emphasize specific frequencies.
- Wave Designer: A transient shaper that allows manipulation of the attack and sustain portions of incoming sounds.
You can send any of the sounds into the effects bus using the 'SEND' button. The selected instruments are collectively processed by the Wave Designer and then the filter.
Video: Behringer RD-9 Analog Drum Machine Overview
Video: A concise overview of the Behringer RD-9's features and sound capabilities.
4.3 Pattern Creation and Editing
The RD-9 features 16 pattern banks (misnamed as 'songs' on the unit), with 16 patterns each, totaling 256 patterns. Each pattern can have a length of up to 64 steps.
- Live Recording: The current instrument can be live recorded by tapping the trigger button.
- Step Repeat: Loops 1, 2, 4, or 8 steps.
- Note Repeat: Allows a step to be split into sub-steps (2, 4, or 8 sub-steps supported). This can be done from the normal sequencer view by holding any step and pressing the trigger button.
- Flam: Adds a flam option per step, creating a sound as if the drum was hit with two sticks almost simultaneously.
- Probability Steps: You can set a probability value (in percent) for selected steps to be triggered, adding variation to your patterns.
- Polymeter Mode: Allows each instrument to have a different pattern length, creating complex rhythmic interactions.
- Micro-timing: All steps are quantized to the grid; there is no micro-timing adjustment.
- Automation: Instrument sound parameters cannot be automated directly, but the filter cutoff can be automated. This can be done by live recording knob movements or manually entering values per step.
4.4 Performance Features
- Mute/Solo: Instruments can be muted or soloed during playback.
- Pattern Chaining (Song Mode): Song mode acts as a playlist for your patterns, allowing you to chain up to 16 patterns from the current bank. You can also set how often each pattern should repeat (up to 255 times).
- Auto-Fill: A useful feature that allows you to piggyback a shorter pattern onto the end of your current pattern, providing a fill or variation.
- Seamless Pattern Copy: Create a copy of the current pattern and switch to it without interrupting playback.
- Pattern Roll: Extends the length of the pattern and clones its existing content into the newly added steps, allowing for easy pattern expansion.
- Tempo: The BPM range is from 20 to 240. The tempo setting is saved with each pattern, but can also be saved per song or globally. You can tap the tempo by tapping 'TAP HOLD' three times.
5. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Behringer RD-9, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents that could damage the finish.
- Storage: Store the RD-9 in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity.
- Handling: Handle the unit with care to prevent physical damage to knobs, buttons, and connectors.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Behringer RD-9, try the following steps:
- No Power: Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the unit and a working power outlet. Verify the power adapter is the correct 18V DC model.
- No Sound: Check all audio cable connections. Ensure the master volume and individual instrument levels are turned up. Verify that instruments are not muted or soloed incorrectly. If using individual outputs, ensure they are connected to appropriate inputs on your mixer/interface.
- MIDI Issues: Confirm MIDI cables are correctly connected (MIDI Out to MIDI In, etc.). Check MIDI settings on both the RD-9 and your external device. Ensure the correct sync option is selected on the RD-9.
- Unexpected Sound Behavior: Check if the unit is in Authentic or Enhanced mode. Review filter and wave designer settings.
For persistent issues, consult the full product manual or contact Behringer customer support.
7. Specifications
- Model Name: RD-9
- Item Model Number: 000-DG604-00010
- Brand: Behringer
- Item Weight: 8.29 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 21.3 x 14.15 x 4.7 inches
- Material: Metal, Plastic
- Color: Natural Wood
- Connector Type: USB
- UPC: 653341343734
- Manufacturer: Behringer
8. Warranty & Support
Behringer products typically come with a limited warranty. Please refer to the official Behringer website or the warranty card included with your product for detailed terms and conditions. For technical support, product registration, or service inquiries, visit the Behringer Store or their official support channels.
Protection plans are available for purchase separately, offering extended coverage beyond the manufacturer's warranty. Options include a 4-Year Protection Plan and a Complete Protect monthly plan.
