Roland TR-33

beatbox analog transistor offering 20 different rhythms.
4 knobs:
-Volume
-Balance (from Section sine wave for bass drums and more. And Noise section hi-hat, snare)
Tempo-
-Change (change banks to provide additional rhythms.

8 buttons consisting banks

a push to double tempo

a touch-sensitive metal plate acting as a start / stop

An output 1 / 4 rear with a potentiometer output volume.


UTILIZATION

Configuration could not be more simple. not edit the sounds, but we can still play with the scale to obtain only part of the rhythm. we can not "tune" the sound.

Another thing that is great is that you can superimpose rhythms. all it takes to drive 2 (or more) buttons simultaneously, then play the rhythms simultaneously, very interesting to make more complex rhythmic or pretend fills.

Manuel findable on the net (see the topic "links TR-33" in the forum) but unnecessary given the simplicity. there are by-cons all the rhythms on paper, which can be useful.

SOUNDS

The TR-33 is a drum machine analog transistor (TR = Transistor Rhythm). I think the announcement of how it sounds. it's very similar vintage. Lower definition as you like it. it has 2 section regarding the engine noise. a section that handles the bass drum, congas, cow bell, claves and the rimshot, using a circuit "resonance granted" (Tuned Resonance). the other section deals with the snare, the hi hat, maracas and cymbals through modulation of a white noise generator.

nothing sounds more like vintage that TR-33, very lo-fi and not realistic. it sounds like what it is.



OVERALL OPINION

Made in 1972, the TR-33 and its sisters and TR-55 TR-77 are the first products of the brand. initially designed to be mounted under the keyboard of an organ or piano (hence the strange shape of "L"), the TR-33 is more enjoyable to use. I use it with effects for sequences with similar synth and it does a good job! Certainly it is not very versatile as BAR but its charm because of its similar sound. it's pure vintage!

shame we can not trigger or modify the sounds but given the time it was made, it should not be too demanding!

Canadian paid $ 5 in a flea market, I do not regret my purchase. Some will sell expensive and I do not think she deserves it paid more than $ 50 but it is certain that the beatbox you feel good!