Roland TR-8 Rhythm Controller

When Roland finally unveiled its AIRA series, the TR-8 rhythm controller, which offers modeled TR-808 and 909 sounds, was one of the four components.

The TR-8 uses Roland’s new Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) modeling technology to recreate the sounds of the classic TR-808 and TR-909 drum machines, and Roland says that, in fact, the TR-8 offers a “full reproduction” of those drum machines.

FEATURES:

Full reproduction of the classic TR-808 and TR-909 rhythm machines, based on original design spec sheets and detailed analog circuit analysis of many original TR machines, including Roland’s own pristine units
Newly developed Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology allows part-by-part analyses and faithful recreation of tonality and behavior, including the smooth variations of tone that occur when you work the controls of each instrument
Reproduction of the original TR’s behavior, including unique variations in tone that occur when multiple instruments are entered in accented steps
Authentic 16-step sequencer with faithful TR-REC behavior, including A and B pattern variations and the ability to play instruments and record to steps in real time
16 stunning kits made up of 11 instrument types, including custom dream kits that use both TR-808 and TR-909 sounds
Large Tempo knob with Tap Tempo button and continuous Fine and Shuffle adjustment knobs
Control the intensity of the Accent function with a dedicated knob
Per-step reverb and delay effects with dedicated knobs
Mix sources connected to the External In jacks with built-in per-step Side Chain function for rhythmic ducking and gating effects
Scatter lets you freak and tweak your grooves with real-time control and perfect sync
7 segment, 4 character LED display and 16 per-step pads with bold, full-color LEDs
Real-time pattern creation up to 32 steps with on-the-fly step count adjustment
Rec/Play modes have been eliminated, enabling seamless switching between step input and real-time pattern making and performance
Real-time play of 4 different types of rolls (8th, 16th, VARI 1, VARI 2) and per-instrument mutes
Pattern copy and pattern randomization for rapid, spontaneous creativity
Two assignable analog outputs and full parallel outputs via USB for total mixing flexibility

The TR-8 is expected to ship in March of this year. Definitive pricing hasn’t been announced, but early indications are that it will have a street price of around $499. For more information, visit RolandUS.com.