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Roland TR-8
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1/2004
Roland TR-8

Drum Machine from Roland belonging to the AIRA series

julienvoirin julienvoirin

«  superb BAR »

Published on 04/03/14 at 16:08
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