Roland TR-08
The Roland TR-08 is an obsessively detailed and faithful replica of the legendary Roland TR 808. Easily the most famous and influential drum machine ever made. Creating a monumental shift in the sound of music, and continuing to shape and define entire genres. Beloved by musicians and producers the world over, it’s one of the most revered and sought-after electronic musical instruments of all time. Bringing back the look, sound, and feel of the original TR 808—with stunning accuracy, to the Roland Boutique format. Blending attention to detail and respect for legacy with modern convenience and reliability.
Roland TR-808
The Roland TR 808 arrived in 1980 to an unsuspecting and somewhat bewildered public. With a purely analog sound and range of tweakable parameters not exactly delivering “traditional” drum sounds. As a result of many adventurous musicians and producers getting their hands on the Roland 808 and tweaking those knobs, we then realized the sonic impact it would leave on music forever. For the next three decades, the sizzling hi-hats and snappy snare, the robotic, clicky rim shot, the unmistakable cowbell, and yes, that booming bass drum, would be heard on many thousands of tracks. Worldwide hits, underground classic, and entire genres were spawned. With an influence so deep it’s been name-dropped in famous tracks, had albums dedicated to it and bands named after it. While even been the subject of a feature-length documentary film.
Time has not diminished the Roland TR 808s influence. New genres continue to make use of the 808, with some utilizing it as the main instrument and defining sound of the style. Sure, you can use samples of a TR-808, but there’s nothing quite like the real thing. Buttons, knobs, switches, and the odd quirks of how the sounds interact with each other, are all vitally important to conjuring up that real TR 808 mojo. And you know it when you hear it with Roland’s TR-08.
What’s new in the TR-08?
Therefore, the new Roland TR-08 adds some thoughtful and modern touches to the classic formula. Featurings 16 sub-steps per step, so you can create detailed snare fills and intricate, rolling hi-hats. While also including a track-selectable trigger out for working with other instruments like the TB-03, SH-01A, or modular gear. Plus, an unobtrusive LED display provides finer control of both tempo and shuffle. So you can step-program or tap in your parts in real-time without stopping to change modes. Everything sends and receives MIDI control messages and it even supports audio and MIDI over USB.
Original TR-808s are big and heavy, and their rarity makes them extremely expensive and sought-after on the used market. Because of this, many resort to 808 sample packs or hardware knockoffs. But there’s something about the colors, controls and, of course, the sound of a genuine TR-808 bringing home the sound of so many classic tracks. The TR-08 accurately recreates the ingredients that make an 808 so special. While miniaturized, is 100% authentic. The sound is vibrant and alive thanks to our proprietary Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology. We use ACB to carefully recreate all the details and quirks of the original hardware by modeling each analog circuit, right down to the component level.
Features
Not only does the Roland TR-08 look and sound the part, but it also has some modern features and conveniences. With all this beat-making power, it would be a shame to keep it shackled to the studio. After all, inspiration can strike anywhere, and drum machines are fun to play live. The TR-08 is literally small enough to take just about anywhere. It’s ruggedly built with sturdy knobs, buttons, and switches. Featuring several tilt options for easy viewing in various live and studio scenarios. With the possibility to act as a low-latency, portable audio interface. It has a built-in speaker and even runs on batteries for when the beat absolutely must go on. With all this power and flexibility, you may be most surprised by the TR-08’s affordable price, which puts the legendary 808 vibe within reach of just about anyone who’s ever dreamed of owning the iconic original.
Overall, if you’re looking for that sought after sound of the classic 808. You will be more than impressed with this brand new rendition which is the Roland TR-08.