Open UTILITY → SYSTEM → MIDI, set MIDI Sync to MIDI for a DIN source, then turn BPM Sync on. Confirm the master’s MIDI OUT is connected to the SP-404MKII MIDI IN.
Try these checks
- Hold SHIFT and press pad 13 to open UTILITY, then choose SYSTEM and the MIDI tab.
- Set MIDI Sync to MIDI for clock arriving at MIDI IN.
- Connect the master’s MIDI OUT to the SP-404MKII MIDI IN.
- Turn BPM Sync on and start the external clock source.
Diagnose it
Is MIDI Sync set to MIDI?
Yes: Check BPM Sync, cable direction and the source’s clock output.
No: Set MIDI Sync to MIDI and repeat the test.
Is a USB clock also connected?
Yes: Use the selected source deliberately; Roland documents USB as a separate MIDI Sync source.
No: Recheck that the master sends MIDI clock at its MIDI OUT.
What should happen
The SP-404MKII synchronizes its tempo to MIDI clock received at MIDI IN.
Why this happens
Roland documents the MIDI Sync source choices and specifies MIDI for MIDI-IN clock; its support guide calls for BPM Sync when following an external device.
If it still doesn’t work
Check the connections and settings described above. If your device behaves differently, email us with its model, firmware version and the steps you tried.
All SP-404MKII fixesMore about SP-404MKII
Similar symptoms on other gear
These guides cover other models. Use the instructions for the device you are setting up.
Sources & review
Sources reviewed: . Documentation does not replace a physical hardware test.
- SP-404MKII Reference Manual, Version 4 · Roland · Version 4 · last checked 2026-09-26 · Open PDF
- SP-404MK2 MIDI triggering and synchronization support · Roland · last checked 2026-09-26
Sections reviewed: Roland support: synchronize SP-404MK2 with external MIDI device.