Roland TR8-S

The Roland TR-8S is a powerful and versatile rhythm performer that combines the legendary sounds of the TR-808 and TR-909 with modern features and functions. It features 11 instrument types, including kick, snare, clap, toms, hi-hat, cymbals, and cowbell, each with its own dedicated controls for pitch, decay, tuning, and more. The TR-8S also has a built-in FM synthesizer that can be used to create custom sounds or to augment the existing instruments.

In addition to its sound engine, the TR-8S features a variety of performance-oriented features, such as a 16-step sequencer with pattern variations, scatter effects, and real-time pattern editing. It also has a host of connectivity options, including MIDI, USB, and CV/gate, making it easy to integrate with other instruments and devices.

Here are some of the key features of the Roland TR-8S:

  • Authentic TR-808 and TR-909 sounds: The TR-8S uses Roland’s ACB (Analog Circuit Behavior) technology to faithfully recreate the sounds of the TR-808 and TR-909.

  • 11 instrument types: The TR-8S features kick, snare, clap, toms, hi-hat, cymbals, cowbell, and FM synthesizer instruments, each with its own dedicated controls.

  • 16-step sequencer with pattern variations: The TR-8S has a 16-step sequencer that can be used to create and store patterns. Patterns can be chained together to create longer songs.

  • Scatter effects: The TR-8S features a variety of scatter effects, such as repeat, reverse, and sidechain, that can be used to add excitement and movement to your patterns.

  • Real-time pattern editing: The TR-8S allows you to edit patterns in real time, without stopping the sequencer. This makes it easy to create complex and evolving patterns.

  • MIDI, USB, and CV/gate connectivity: The TR-8S has a variety of connectivity options, including MIDI, USB, and CV/gate, making it easy to integrate with other instruments and devices.

I really like the way you can adjust the individual sounds to suit the track you’re working on. I wish Ableton Live Drums would easily allow editing of Tune, Decay etc. Even with a Push you have to do menu diving on most of the built-in Ableton Drums besides the 808 Classic Drum kit.