Roland Combines Sampling with Classic Drum Machines in the TR-8S

A new forward-thinking device from Roland, combining TR rhythm sounds, samples, and effects.

Author:: Ryan "SamuRy" Payan
Publish date:: Mar 5, 2018

tr-s8 — Roland

Roland has unveiled their brand new TR-8S Rhythm Performer. The innovative instrument combines Roland’s renowned rhythm machine legacy with modern sound design features tuned for live performance.

The TR-8S has every sound from the most sought-after TR drum machines, with detailed circuit-models of the 808, 606, 909, 707, 727, and even several modified versions.

Powered by Roland’s highly acclaimed ACB technology, each machine is a detailed, component-level model that sounds and behaves exactly like the original hardware.

Like the TR sounds, you can deeply manipulate samples with immediate hands-on control. Adjust decay and tuning and alter sample start points, speed, and direction. You can create a kit entirely from samples or mix and match with TR sounds for genre-defying drum tracks that demand attention.

The TR-8S also includes percussion-tuned effects for enhancing sounds with character, depth, and space. There’s a Master FX knob for processing the entire kit and a control knob for each channel, and both can be custom-configured with favorite effects parameters for sound shaping on the fly.

Also featured is Roland’s famous "TR-REC" step sequencer, which is able to store 128 patterns, with eight variations and three fills contained in each.

Finally, it is equipped with connection options to seamlessly integrate with any setup. The TR-8S also functions as a multi-channel USB audio/MIDI interface and supports AIRA Link for interfacing with other AIRA gear.

To learn more about the TR-8S Rhythm Performer, visit Roland.com and watch the videos below.

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