Synthesizers&KeyboardsSound Module/ Tone GeneratorModular SystemsDrum Machines, Percussion SynthsOtherDJSoftwareSamplers
Electric GuitarsProcessors, Effects, PedalsAmplifiersTuners&metronomes

Roland TR-8

Rhythm Performer

DescriptionImagesVideoTech specsCompatibleAlternativeFAQRelated ArticlesManualsComments

TR-8 1TR-8 2TR-8 3TR-8 4
Product Images: click to view fullsize version.
Roland TR-8
Roland TR-8
450.00 street price

Roland vintage instruments created from the late 70's to the mid-80's became the most popular units of analog renaissance in the 21st century. The company produces instruments which have little to do with their predecessors. However, the capabilities and ambitions allow the brand to return to the basics, while other manufacturers have only a small chance for a comeback.

In February 2014 the company announced the AIRA line, which now includes the renowned rhythm machine called Roland AIRA TR-8.

The drum machine isn’t analog but it has a new core based on ACB modeling (Analogue Circuit Behavior), which is designed for most accurate recreation of analog circuit.

The first thing that everyone managed to pay attention to is its design. There is a distinct correlation with classic machines, but at the same time you can see the addition of neon touch. All buttons except those at the bottom of the panel are green backlit. By the way speaking about the bottom block with 16 pads: each of 11 drum types is segmented according to the original TR-808 layout. It is worth noting that the magic number "16" haunts a lot of rhythm machines, and TR-8 is no exception. A 16-step sequencer is available, allowing you to play patterns separately or simultaneously. Each pattern offers 2 variations - A and B, which can be combined to create 32 steps.

Percussion adjustment is limited to 2 knobs: release and tune. The exception is bass drum which has additional processing by the compressor as well as attack and decay settings control. Among the features "Scatter" stands out. Thanks to it the so-called "stuttering" effect, reminding of "glitch", is achieved. Besides, the set of effects includes reverb, delay, and a dynamic-mocker - "side chain".

TR-8 percussion synthesizer is simple enough and intuitive in use. The live performing is managed with the INST and INST REC buttons, or you can prepare the steps in the TR style thanks to TR-REC. In the INST PLAY mode, 12-16 pads are assigned for special purposes.

For example, from 12 to 15 pads are responsible for creating a roll effect, and the 16th represents a mute mode. DSP engineers have done a tremendous work of introducing drums taken from the classic TR-808 and TR-909. They added the same features inherent in vintage analog machines.

Tags: digital synthesizer,

Favorites   Recommend product to a friend

E-mail*
More info
 
Usage area
Bass Synthesizer 
Percussion Synthesizer 
Rhytm/ Drum Machine 
Usage Design/ Form Factor
Without Keys, Desktop 
Archetype
Digital (D) 
Programs/ Voices/ Timbres
Drum Kits Preset11
Percussion/ Drum Capabilities Kick Drum
Percussion/ Drum Capabilities Snare Drum
Percussion/ Drum Capabilities Hi-Hat Open
Percussion/ Drum Capabilities Hi-Hat Close
Percussion/ Drum Capabilities Tom
Envelope Generator (EG)
Attack 
Decay 
Effects
Reverb 
Delay 
Effects overall4
Sequencer
Max Step Count16
MIDI in/ out
IN 
OUT 
Display
Display type EL
Resolution: Symbols Count4
Pads Matrix
Pads Count16
Audio out
Analogue: 1/4" (6.35mm)5
Audio in
Analog 1/4"2
Power
Power Supply External
Dimensions
Height65 mm
Width400 mm
Depth260 mm
Weight1.900 kg
Color
Black 
Production start2014

Please log in using the form below or register to be able to order goods and services.

Username
Password (4 to 16 characters)

Roland TB-3
/5 0

  Bass Synthesizer   270.00 U.S.Dollars

Roland TB-3 was released together with TR-8 in 2014. Apparently, the legendary brand approached the design quite in a unique manner. While TR-8 looks like TR-808 and 909, TB-3 ultimately represents a remake of everyone's beloved "303". The bass...

Roland TR-8S
/5 0

  Rhythm Performer   700.00 U.S.Dollars

The Roland TR-8S is a drum machine and synthesizer that combines the classic sound and design of the TR-808 and TR-909 with modern features and capabilities. It features a large selection of sounds, a powerful sequencer, and a variety of effects and...

Elektron Digitakt
3.0/5 4

  Drum Computer/ Sampler   800.00 U.S.Dollars

Digitakt is an 8-voice drum machine with a powerful sequencer. The sample-based drum machine offers 64MB sample memory and you also get 1GB of built-in storage. Each track has a multimode filter and an assignable LFO available. The instrument provides...

  • enpdf1.73Mb Roland TR-8 Owner's Manual