The Roland TR-8S is a modern evolution of the legendary TR-808 and TR-909 drum machines, offering the classic sounds of these iconic machines with contemporary features and a sleek, intuitive interface. Released in 2018 as part of Roland’s AIRA series, the TR-8S has become a favorite among producers and performers for its intuitive workflow, powerful sound design capabilities, and seamless integration with other gear. Let’s take a journey through the history of this innovative machine and explore how it has shaped electronic music production.
The Birth of the TR-808 and TR-909
The original Roland TR-808 was introduced in 1980 as a rhythm composer for musicians. Despite its initial commercial failure, the TR-808’s distinctive sound and sequencer made it a cult classic. Its influence can be heard in countless tracks across genres, from hip-hop and R&B to house and techno.
The Roland TR-909 was introduced in 1983 as a successor to the TR-808. The 909 featured a more robust sound engine and a built-in sequencer, making it a favorite among producers and performers. The 909’s sound became the foundation of the techno and house genres, and the machine became a sought-after piece of gear for producers around the world.
The AIRA Series: A New Era (2014)
In 2014, Roland introduced the AIRA series, a line of modern instruments inspired by classic Roland gear. The AIRA series included the TR-8 (a modern take on the TR-808 and TR-909 drum machines), the System-1 (a virtual analog synthesizer), and the TB-3 (a modern reimagining of the TB-303).
The TR-8 was designed to capture the essence of the original TR-808 and TR-909 while adding modern features and a sleek, touch-sensitive interface. The TR-8’s sound engine was based on Roland’s Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, which accurately modeled the analog circuitry of the original 808 and 909.
The TR-8S: A Modern Evolution (2018)
In 2018, Roland released the TR-8S, a significant upgrade to the TR-8. The TR-8S retained the core features that made the TR-8 so popular while adding new functionality that catered to the needs of modern producers. The TR-8S introduced sample playback, allowing users to load and manipulate their own samples, as well as enhanced connectivity options and a more robust sound engine.
The TR-8S was designed to be a central hub for music production, offering a seamless integration of internal and external sound sources. Its intuitive interface and hands-on controls made it easy to create, arrange, and perform music, while its compact and portable design ensured it was as at home in the studio as it was on stage.
Key Features and Innovations
The TR-8S stands out for its combination of classic sound and modern features. Here are some of its standout features:
- Classic 808 and 909 Sounds: The TR-8S features a wide range of classic 808 and 909 sounds, from booming kicks and snappy snares to crisp hi-hats and expressive percussion. The sound engine is highly versatile, allowing you to create everything from subtle textures to aggressive beats.
- Sample Playback: The TR-8S allows you to load and manipulate your own samples, making it a powerful tool for creating unique beats and rhythms.
- Modern Effects: The TR-8S includes a variety of built-in effects, such as reverb, delay, distortion, and more. These effects can be applied to individual sounds or the master output, adding depth and texture to your sound.
- Sequencing and Pattern Chaining: The TR-8S’s sequencer allows you to create patterns of up to 32 steps, with options for real-time and step recording. The pattern chaining feature lets you chain patterns together to create full tracks.
The TR-8S’s Impact on Music Production
The TR-8S has quickly become a favorite among producers and performers for its intuitive workflow and versatile features. Its ability to integrate internal and external sound sources makes it a powerful tool for both studio production and live performances. The TR-8S’s pattern chaining and motion sequencing features have been particularly praised for their ability to streamline the music production process and enable dynamic live sets.
The TR-8S’s compact and portable design has also made it a popular choice for musicians who need a mobile setup. Its battery-powered operation and hands-on controls ensure it’s as at home in a coffee shop as it is in a studio.
The TR-8S Today
As of 2023, the TR-8S remains a popular choice for electronic music producers. Its combination of classic sound, modern features, and intuitive controls has earned it a loyal following. While Roland has since released other products and updates, the TR-8S’s innovative design and powerful capabilities ensure it remains relevant in today’s music production landscape.
Key Milestones in the TR-8S’s History:
- 1980: Roland introduces the original TR-808, which becomes a cult classic and defines the hip-hop and R&B genres.
- 1983: Roland introduces the TR-909, which becomes the foundation of the techno and house genres.
- 2014: Roland releases the TR-8 as part of the AIRA series, featuring modern effects, a touch-sensitive interface, and ACB technology.
- 2018: Roland releases the TR-8S, featuring sample playback, enhanced connectivity, and a more robust sound engine.
- 2023: Continues to be a popular choice for music production and live performances.
Final Thoughts
The Roland TR-8S is more than just a drum machine—it’s a modern tool that brings the power of the classic TR-808 and TR-909 sounds to your fingertips. Its combination of classic sound, modern features, and intuitive controls makes it a powerful and inspiring tool for producers and performers alike. Whether you’re crafting beats in the studio or performing live on stage, the TR-8S is a companion that will elevate your music to new heights.
Here’s to the beats, the rhythms, and the endless creativity of the Roland TR-8S. 🎶
