[sdiy] TR909 clone PCB pictures

[Colin Fraser]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-synth-diy at dropmix.xs4all.nl 
> [mailto:owner-synth-diy at dropmix.xs4all.nl] On Behalf Of 
> Christian Oncken
> Sent: 08 January 2002 17:31
> To: Trevor Page; synth diy
> Subject: RE: [sdiy] TR909 clone PCB pictures
> 
> It seems that a plugin developer for a freeware DSP music 
> software called
> BUZZ asked Roland for permission to replicate their 808 and 
> 909 in software
> for his new freeware plugin.  He got permission for the 808, 
> but wasnt given
> permission specifically for the 909.

Most likely because the 909 uses sampled sounds for the hi-hats and
cymbals which Roland have mechanical copyright over.
They let you use these sounds in your own music, but not in hardware
products.

The 808 sounds are generated by circuits which are not protected in any
way, except for the original schematics and PCB art.
Roland couldn't refuse permission, as they have no legal basis to do so.
Same applies to the analogue sounds in the 909.

If they give Trevor any stick over using the original 909 samples, it
would be easy enough for Trev to supply his boards either without
EPROMS, or with re-synthesized samples which Roland would have no rights
to.

Colin f