Klangfeld Labs

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Unabhängige Forschung seit 1978*

DOOM OS: a custom OS for the Roland SP-404MK2

A heavily modified custom OS with a new graphical pattern sequencer, mixer, and much, much more!

· 6 min read · SP-404MK2 · Roland · Firmware · Reverse engineering · DOOM OS · Teardown

The DOOM OS logo

Today I’m happy to announce the first public alpha of my custom SP-404MKII firmware: DOOM OS!

The goal is to completely replace TR-REC mode with a proper graphical pattern editor, improve the user interface, and generally make the SP more fun to use without having to memorize a ton of key combos.

It’s an alpha, so a lot is stilll missing, but in its current state it’s already very usable and fun to play around with. The new pattern workflow makes it feel much more like a groovebox.

So, without further ado, here are the main features:

Graphical Pattern View and Editor

A feature-rich graphical editor with fine-grained control over individual steps and notes.

Pattern Editing Tools

Comprehensive note editing tools for quantization, swing, and more.

Mixer View with Realtime Metering

FX Motion Automation Recorder and Editor

Interactive Help screens

Custom Shortcuts and System Settings

And much more!

For a quick rundown of most of the features and how to get started, check the DOOM OS page

For all features and key combos, read the manual.