All user reviews of 5/5 for the Roland TR-8

Midi in out on DIN stereo out Master 2 individual outputs + 2 audio inputs (2xmono or 1x stereo)
14 USB audio outputs (stereo master 11 + instruments + 1 unknown). USB input (not including implementation)
Reverb, delay, a sidechainable entry: these three effects sélectionnantes different algorithms via the INST DRUM SELECT button
Reproduces the original instruments 808 and 909 so far + more modern versions (bassdrum 808 ultra long decay Miami Bass for example). New stamps are available via SHIFT (tbc)
sequencer 1-16 not (A or B) or 32 steps (A + B) double or triple swing note + function delay AND ahead
16 patterns saved automatically if we play
16 drumkits saved the same way, the parameters are saved CHOICE instrument (808 or 909) and not its settings decay, tune, etc..
Editable x0x sequencer mode or real-time game. roll and change functions -> for the live game
a scatter wheel seems to be a sort of loopeur with various algorithms. His mastery of the training request (see note on the record)

Implementation and workflow rather limited noon. Great idea USB greatly facilitating connections (and budget!) Engages its audio outputs.

UTILIZATION

Simple machine, almost simplistic with a few modern features that need to be implemented (backup kit and not just choice of instruments, more pattern, a song mode, optimizing the workflow on mute ...
Midi notes emitted do not follow mute the sequencer: the whole pattern TR8 balance, even if mute instruments; it's a shame becuase it can not record midi possible improvisation. Similarly, no accent midi: shame: (

The record is more a plug in hand, it is much too brief.
Sounds are very easily edited, in real time as desired. Wholesale button for a parameter, hard to beat.

SOUNDS

Classic Stamps 808 and 909 with one side already produced / mixed, much appreciated. effects require a little training and are not documented, and interesting results in small doses.
Stamps are very loyal, special mention bassdrum is suddenly much more musical than the 808 909 and does not require large corrections to sound: it is immediately clean in the mix.
The expression is excellent, we really like to play with for long sessions without trouble, without having to think too much either. some learning and repeating routines to successfully exit transitions that kill and raises energetic. pretty basic sequencer is a real pleasure to play

OVERALL OPINION

I've had a week and I was quickly hooked. I found the simplicity of the game and machinedrum EM1, the largest number of operating buttons makes much easier without having to manipulate menus.
Compared to 909, clone 808, Machinedrum, Korg EM1 and MPC. The ergonomics of the TR8 is a perfect blend of everything, with some functions that can be found in the Machinedrum which remains to be implemented in a MAJ (mute release all of a sudden, for example with a single button).
I particularly appreciate his musicality, his heard and réentendus 34 years stamps and ergonomics. Interesting detail: its weight. Only 2 kg but a solid plastic construction and stable worktop. It can hit hard buttons, they are strong and quick respond.
The value for money as clone 909/808 is just excellent, I was right to take it.
Attention mac 10.8 with driver 1.0 and Logic 9: big latency audio sound card concatenated mode (may be an error in my config, state).
Updating firmware on the sequencer would be tasteful and a backup meridian of pattern and memories of the TR8.

Example demo multi USB outputs, a little delay on QLQ slices with just a TC Finalizer on the master and CD mastering preset behind:
<iframe width="100%" height="450" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/142045561&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&visual=true"></iframe>

https://soundcloud.com/4colors/roland-tr8-individual-out-usb
pump is connected to the compressor on the master mix, the bassdrum is very effective

To quickly summarize what you can easily find on any site that summarizes the machine.
You have a stereo output and two assignable output A / B to isolate kick / snare for example!
And a mono / stereo input section that can play sidechain with the TR-8
Midi level you will find an in / out headphone output and a USB port that allows you to synchronize your machine DAW, play midi pattern and also recorded in multi separate which is not bad at all! Track! Suitable for use on MAC / PC
Level you will find a reverb effects and a configurable delay in step sequencer and a compressor on the kick and snare only.
This allows you to assign an effect to a specific location and not the rest. The sequence can be played in two ways. In the former you set your TR-8 as a 808 or so live mode you play and record live it careful if you save it automatically quantize.

UTILIZATION

The machine is quite easy to learn first hand first, no need to be a genius. There are two three subtlety that you learn by reading the manual.
As the original TR, and the big advantage that you have everything on hand. No menu, submenu etc. everything is accessible directly making it a perfect played
At his level, you will find the 808/909 kit and a lot of other kit that's a mixture of it with some variations. For each element (kick, snare, handclap etc ...) you can select all the banks that offers the machine.
Manual a little amber including the USB config but if the key is there!
I searched a bit to config usb and I finally understand the need to download the drivers on the site since are not supplied with!

SOUNDS

So the important point, the sound!
If you want a BAR 808 or 909 without wanting to spit minimum 2000e, go for it.
This is not analog like the original but a new technology created by roland ACB (Analog Circuit Behaviour) from what they say they studied the behavior of their original products and have recreated on numerical models to fast.
Of course the sounds are extremely realistic better than any plug again and even if I do not have 808 I had the opportunity several times to play with the original.
It obviously recognizes the paw of the manufacturer and the only real difference I notice is that the analog 808 is normally "dirty." Here we have the same punch, but clean version and passage without breath too!
No velocity on the pad, it's not a Tempest for the groove it will play with the focus and shuffle.
His personal level I agree 100% especially considering the price ... The only real downside is the effects.
The reverb is pretty filthy and not very thorough and delay even if it allows some nice stuff. Note the scatter which allows a bit random effects live very interesting as we do not push too much "depth" or the sound becomes a digital bug.

OVERALL OPINION

I just spent a good afternoon it, I bet the price pre ordered and frankly I do not regret in any case! The price / quality ratio is unbeatable price especially with aberrant old models. For me it is a true and yes I intend to keep it in my studio. I had a Tempest, a Machinedrum is obviously a bit more limited in terms of sound but it does the job if you want a 808 or 909 that is not possible elsewhere. If you listen emulation 808/909 on the Tempest is incomparable.
What I like most is definitely pushing the computer, put the BAR and play live. Beyond the sound is also good that the hearts, back to basics to forget MIDI and mouse!
If you find a 808/909 to a correct price, go for it again, I think you will not regret for 1500e 3500e finally even less if I add 808 and 909 LOL
Plus a lot of benefit from a more modern techno. I'll try to do a little video to show soon!