Get to grips with the Roland TR-1000 – Producer's Guide

video upload by MusicRadar Tech

"Unveiled earlier this month, Roland’s TR-1000 was always going to cause a stir. This flagship drum machine sits at the top of Roland’s line-up, with a top-end price to match. It’s the first Roland drum machine in more than 40 years to feature analogue sounds, with 16 circuits that mimic those of the iconic TR-808 and TR-909.

To focus solely on the TR-1000’s analogue elements would miss a lot of its highlights though. Alongside these sounds, Roland’s behemoth also features sampling, flexible effects, digital percussion sounds and a well-equipped, creative sequencer.

In our video, we explore the basics of the TR-1000 workflow and explain a few of our favourite creative features, including resampling, timestretching, the Morph crossfader and the master effects.

In this video, we’re using the TR-1000 alongside Erica Synths’ Bassline synth. The TR-1000 is sending MIDI clock to the Bassline sequencer, and the Bassline is routed into the TR-1000’s rear panel input and routed through the Master FX unit.

In this video:
01:40 – Sequencing basics
07:20 – Resampling a drum loop
19:17 – Drum layers
23:05 – Sub steps and probability
24:52 – FX routing
28:45 – Morph
32:23 – Variations and fills"

Roland 100M 182 sequencer clone + TR-808 #synth

video upload by funkpirateradioscene

"DIY 182 sequencers for the Roland 100m modular. Clocked by 808 trigger out"

Roland TR-1000 compared to OG TR-808 TR-909

video upload by Antony Fewster

"Quick compare of the new Roland TR-1000 to the TR-808 and TR-909. Not intended to be a shootout, more so side by side examples of how the engines compare.

The TR-1000's 808 engines are all analog in this example. The TR-1000's 909 kick and clap are analog, the hats are ACB.

Recorded from main outs on all machines into Apollo x8 into Logic. Normalized audio, exported uncompressed to AIFF. Finally degraded by imovie and youtube."

Update: some additional info via Antony:

"In trying to match the levels (tuning etc), something that was really apparent was that there originals had nowhere left to go - both the 808 and 909 were set to max on the available settings (other than tone for the 808 was was around 12 o’clock). The TR-1000 had headroom for days across every parameter - decay, tuning etc before you even get to the extended parameters, effects, filter etc

I find in the same room the TR-1000 is crisper, clearer, heavier, punchier. I imagine most folks will be dialing things back to sit in the mix vs adding stuff (i.e. when compared to the originals) to make them do their thing.

I know the originals do what they do, but having played the TR-1000 I find myself wondering why the tuing stops ‘here’, or why I can’t add a delay to the hats, and a compressor to the kick as I’m in the flow with the machine - vs going back to the daw, or having to use separate outs into outboard stuff - it’s all very immediate."

Roland Jupiter-4: The Analog Polyphonic Pioneer 🎹

video upload by RetroSound

"(c)2007-25 by RetroSound
supported by UVI: http://bit.ly/retrosound-uvi

Roland Jupiter-4 - The Analog Polyphonic Pioneer
A deep dive into my favorite Jupiter the Roland Jupiter-4, exploring its unique features and the reasons it is often overshadowed despite its significant contributions. The enduring legacy of the Roland Jupiter-4, a foundational analog polyphonic synthesizer, is explored in this video. Its pioneering sound and significant impact on electronic music are highlighted.

I used in the demo track:
Roland Jupiter-4 (1978) most sounds
Roland TR-808 (1982) drums
PPG wave 2.2 (1982) choir sounds"

Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer w/ MIDI

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Reverb listing

"Beautiful condition! Recently refurbished by turnlab and with kenton midi.

This is by far the best sounding 808 I ever owned and heard, the bd is insane.

Selling only to get a prophet 5."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Solton Programmer 24 with 32 vintage drums expansion

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
video upload by Scienceforce

"Solton Programmer 24 with 32 vintage drums expansion, the Italo Disco machine!"

via this Reverb listing

"Rare Solton Programmer 24, well known as the Italo Disco Machine, equipped with a cool 32 vintage drums expansion, very performing with all the iconic drum machines like Linndrum, roland TR-808 / 909, EMU models etc with also some experimental banks ..so great for elektro / techno music productions.

Here is a video test of this P24 for sale, just as example.. sorry about my bad camera capture audio mic

It has been recently serviced with a new backup battery inside"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland Introduces the TR-1000 Rhythm Creator w/ TR-808 and TR-909 Analog Drum Circuitry

video uploads by RolandChannel

The TR-1000 is available now for $2,699.99. Check with dealers on the right for availability.

"The TR-1000’s analog engine features 16 of the most coveted circuits from the TR-808 and TR-909, faithfully recreated from the original designs with detailed engineering and carefully selected modern components. Alongside the TR-1000’s analog voices are powerful digital sounds driven by Roland’s latest advancements, including 21 circuit-bent TR-808 and TR-909 models built with Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, FM percussion, virtual analog tones, and a deep PCM library for sonic exploration and fresh textures."

Playlist:

1. Roland TR-1000 Rhythm Creator | Egyptian Lover Performance
2. Roland TR-1000 Rhythm Creator | Everything You Need to Know

User videos followed by hi-res pics and the press release:

CLICK FOR MORE »

New Roland TR-1000 RHYTHM CREATOR Incoming

Update: teaser videos added below.

This one was sent in via an anonymous reader. It's apparently from a Sweetwater catalog.

The text reads:

"NEW!

Meet the TR-1000:
Roland's Legacy Rhythms Reborn

Blueprinted with unprecedented potential, the Roland TR-1000 Rhythm Creator marries historic heat, analog presence, and digital precision into a polychromic powerhouse built on the masterfully re-created circuits of the legendary TR-808 and TR-909 drum machines. Its hybrid architecture houses a trio of synth engines, bringing a prismatic palette of FM, PCM, and VA possibilities to the TR-1000's analog foundations, with ACB modeling supplying the coveted circuit-bent sonics of the 8X and 9X models. Over 2,500 onboard sounds join a wealth of digital and analog effects while the suite of classic-to-contemporary connectivity effortlessly integrates the TR-1000 into any arrangement. Add in cutting-edge Morphing performance controls, next-gen TR-REC sequencing. true-stereo re/sampling, and an unbridled array of sonic contouring tools, and you've only scratch the surface of the TR-1000's kaleidoscopic capabilities — vintage heart, modern soul. and endless exploration waiting to be discovered by you."

If legit, I'm curious how it will compare the the TR-8S. Note the change in design aesthetic. Reminds me of the GAIA with a touch of Elektron gear. Note the Morph slider on the bottom right and display on the top right.

Update2: Roland announcement post here, additional posts with demos here.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Oberheim DMX 8-Voice Drum Machine

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Reverb listing

"The Oberheim DMX is a classic digital drum machine introduced in 1981 by Oberheim Electronics. It became one of the most iconic drum machines of the early 1980s, particularly influential in hip-hop, electro, and pop music

🔧 Key Features:

12-bit digital samples: The DMX used actual sampled drum sounds stored in EPROM chips, giving it a realistic, punchy character that distinguished it from analog drum machines like the Roland TR-808.
Sounds: It included individual samples for kick, snare, hi-hats, toms, cymbals, claps, cowbell, etc. The samples could be swapped out using different EPROMs.
8-voice polyphony: You could play up to 8 drum sounds at once.
Individual outputs: Each drum sound had its own output jack, allowing for separate processing and mixing.
Swing and quantization: The DMX had adjustable swing, making its grooves feel more human.
Tight MIDI sync and clocking: It could sync with other gear via MIDI (on later models), DIN sync, or analog clock pulses.
Sequencing: Patterns and songs could be programmed in step or real-time mode, with memory for multiple patterns and songs.

🎧 Sound Character:
Punchy and dry, with a distinctive ’80s sheen.
The snare and clap are especially famous—used heavily in early rap and electro.
It had a more realistic, “studio drummer” feel than analog machines, making it ideal for producers aiming for a more polished sound

This unit has a toggle and button on top and button which we are not sure of the function. Never used it."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer with CHD Midi, Synthronics PSU, Original Box, Stardust Cover

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Reverb listing

CLICK FOR MORE »

E-Licktronic Yocto 2 TR-808 Analog Drum Machine w/ LED Display & Kick Drum Decay Mod

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Reverb listing

"Yocto 2 Rhythm Composer, Roland TR-808 clone. Has all the classic analog sounds of the 808, and adds an additional Boss PC-2 based percussion voice, MIDI, stereo mix out and extra trigger out for triggering your synth’s sequencer - as well as many additional features in the UI, like being able to mute individual sounds.

This one has an extra kick drum decay mod, which means the kick can go super boomy if desired."

Demo in the listing previously posted here.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer SN 25918

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Reverb listing

"OG Japanese Roland TR-808, fully converted to US voltage and recently serviced to original Roland factory procedure by Retro Pro Audio, with zero hours usage since service.

As bulletproof an 808 as you will find on Reverb today, with Start/Stop and Tap switches now rated to 50 million key presses.

Full servicing details:

Disassembled, visually inspected interior PCBs and wiring.
Updated PSU: Converted unit from Japanese 100V to US 120V power. Removed existing transformer, replaced with new transformers.
Replaced transformer wiring to PSU PCB.
Replaced PSU capacitors with new.
Replaced original power cord with new 3-prong grounded IEC power cord.
Removed battery holder and cleaned. Replaced batteries.
Removed Start/Stop button and Tap buttons. Replaced both with custom 3D-printed button/adapter PCB and mechanical Cherry MX key-switch assemblies for improved performance—each switch rated to 50 million key presses. No more having Start/Stop or Tap buttons fail on you during live performance or while banging the box in the studio.
Diagnosed poor maraca sound quality to incorrect voltage level at noise generator. Identified root cause of voltage issue to dirty VR trimmer. Removed trimmer, cleaned and replaced. Adjusted trimmer to recommended level.
Removed step switch board. Cleaned module. Four step switches were not triggering smoothly & consistently, Identified a broken step switch actuator, replaced with new.
Replaced 4 poorly performing tact switches with new. Improved tactile feel of step switches by raising height of switch actuators.
Tested step switch ribbon cable as working properly and cleaned the contacts.
Calibrated unit to factory procedure. Cleaned all output & trigger jacks.
This is an 808 ready to go the distance with you in the studio and on tour!"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland TR 808

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Reverb listing

SN looks like either 186199, 166199, or 93 at the end.

CLICK FOR MORE »

140bpm LIVE SET and FULL RIG WALKTHROUGH! 🎛️ w/ Scrapcode Modular's AXIOM and WONK

video upload by Electronisounds Audio

"I got carried away checking out a couple of new modules from SCRAPCODE MODULAR: AXIOM and WONK. What started as a quick initial test and exploration, turned into this full 140bpm set with techno and psytrance vibes.

I'll play the set for a bit, then go over the entire rig, and explain what does what and how it all works together."

---
▼CONNECT with me / SUPPORT creativity and good content▼
WEBSTORE ► https://www.electronisounds.com/
PATREON ► https://www.patreon.com/DeanDaughters"

Additional info on the modules from Scrapcode Modular:

AXIOM - Euclidean Rhythm Generator

video uploads by Scrapcode Modular - from 3 years ago

Playlist:

1. AXIOM - Euclidean Rhythm Generator - Product Overview
2. AXIOM - 9/8 Jam
3. AXIOM - Long Pattern

AXIOM is a Eurorack module based on the popular concept of the Euclidean Rhythm, where a defined number of HITS is evenly distributed throughout a sequence.

It allows two CV inputs for each if its four lanes – one for the number of HITS in each lane, and a second for either the number of STEPS in each sequence or for an OFFSET to its starting position.

Each sequence can be assigned a different length, causing the rhythms in each lane to move in and out of phase with one another. A pattern of up to 21,840 steps is possible before repeating if the right settings are chosen!*

An internal clock or external CV trigger can be used to progress the sequencer.

AXIOM is available as either a DIY Kit or as a fully assembled product.

For more information please visit www.scrapcode.co.uk

*Hint – use STEPS MODE and set the STEPS values to 13, 14, 15 and 16.


WONK - Quad Envelope Generator for Eurorack

video uploads by Scrapcode Modular - from 3 months ago

"An overview of the features of WONK by Scrapcode Modular."

00:00 Intro
00:17 Attack-Release Envelopes
00:38 Wonkification
01:21 Hold-Release Envelopes
01:53 Looping Mode
03:05 Jam with Axiom, Moog and 808
04:51 Outro

WONK is a four lane envelope generator with a twist!

Each lane shares the same Attack and Release controls, but these can be further modified by the Wonk parameter:

More Wonk will make the top envelopes longer and the bottom envelopes shorter.
Less Wonk will make the top envelopes shorter and the bottom envelopes longer.

WONK can run in Attack-Release, Hold-Release or Looping modes, and is available fully built or as a DIY kit.


Additional demos:

Ambient Filter Jam - Modular Eurorack Bleeps and Bloops using Doepfer Quad Poly Filter A-105-4

video upload by Scrapcode Modular

"A little ambient dawless jam exploring the Doepfer Quad Poly Filter (A-105-4) alongside modules from ‪@scrapcodemodular‬, ‪@behringer‬ and ‪@Dreadbox-synths‬.

All sound created live with no post-processing.

Sounds best in headphones!"

Extended Cut - Scrapcode Modular Promo Jam

video upload by Scrapcode Modular

"An extended cut of the jam featured in the WONK product demo.

This short jam was made with a couple of small interlinked modular systems, a Roland TR-808 and a Moog Mother 32.

Scrapcode modules featured are a pair of AXIOMs, a pair of WONKs, and a prototype of the upcoming QUORD module.

00:00 Intro
00:10 AXIOM Rhythm Building
00:40 Wonkification
00:58 Drums
01:32 Drop
02:10 Drums Cut
02:30 Ambient Looping WONK
03:02 Beat Re-entry
03:36 Drop 2
04:15 Ambient Looping WONK (No Clock)
05:30 Hands-Off"

Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer SN 310994

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Reverb listing

"Single owner and stationary in studio for entire lifetime. The tempo knob is missing, but this can be purchased from spare part suppliers. Installed Kenton retrofit d-sub for MIDI control."

CLICK FOR MORE »

#808day TR-808 : Awareness 2025-08-08 by atnr

video upload by atnr

"#808day – TR-808 Jam
A stripped-back techno track built entirely on the iconic Roland TR-808.

Each individual output gets its own flavour:

Cowbell → ‪@ChaseBlissAudio‬ LOSSY for lo-fi grit

Main mix → ‪@BOSSinfoglobal‬ DD-6 for digital delay

Snare → ‪@ChaseBlissAudio‬ MOOD MK II for glitchy ambience

Kick → SANS AMP BASS DRIVER D.I. for extra punch

Check out my 2024 #808day performance as well:"

#808day TR-808 Jam | Para 2024-08-08 by atnr

video upload by atnr

"A piece featuring the TR-808 and DD-6. The parameters and patterns of the TR-808 are manipulated in real-time. The sounds were recorded via individual outputs. The DD-6 is applied to the snare."

808 Day 2025: Roland Celebrates 45 Years of Rhythm Culture

video upload by RolandChannel

"A TR-808 beat so raw it stopped gangsters in their tracks."

"Check the debut of The Rhythm Creators series, featuring @ThEgyptianLover's first meeting with the drum machine that changed everything. Animated by Vaughn Taormina."



Press release follows:

Los Angeles, CA, August 7, 2025 — Roland Corporation celebrates the 45th anniversary of its iconic TR-808 Rhythm Composer today. Since its debut in 1980, the TR-808, commonly known as “the 808,” has shaped the creation of musical genres from hip-hop to techno, trap, and beyond. Its unmistakable sound has powered decades of iconic tracks, from smash hits like Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and Beyoncé’s “Drunk in Love” to a sea of underground techno, electro, and hip-hop anthems. TR drum machines have laid the musical pulse for generations, fueling global rhythm culture through the hands of producers, DJs, and creative visionaries who continue to push its legacy in new directions.

To celebrate this 808 Day, Roland will unveil a series of special releases—including a limited-edition sneaker collaboration with New Balance—and global events that pay tribute to the 808’s enduring legacy and cultural impact.

Rhythm Creators
As part of the celebration, Roland is launching The Rhythm Creators, an eight-part animated video series highlighting untold stories from artists shaped by the legacy of its most iconic rhythm machines—the TR-808 and its influential successor, the TR-909. Each episode blends humor, reverence, and nostalgia, and features stylized animation by Detroit artist Vaughn Taormina and narration from the artists themselves.

Episode one premieres today with Egyptian Lover, with new installments featuring Prince Paul, Fatboy Slim, Soul II Soul’s Jazzie B, and other trailblazing artists dropping throughout August and into September.

New Balance Collaboration
Roland and iconic footwear brand New Balance have relaunched the special edition Tiago Lemos NM808 x Roland sneaker. This collaboration exemplifies the 808’s impact on music and culture, showcasing the unique intersection of skateboarding, hip-hop, and fashion.

To further celebrate this collaboration, Roland and New Balance are hosting Atlanta’s creative community for an exclusive industry mixer dedicated to the 808’s legacy in the birthplace of trap music.

The mixer will be hosted at SESSIONS Atlanta, the iconic studio run by legendary producer Tricky Stewart. Highlights will include private Roland product demonstrations, live performances by Sonny Digital and Mix Master David, as well as an appearance by the popular BackTrack podcast host Don Cannon. Guests will also check out the Tiago Lemos NM808 x Roland sneakers in person.

The Tiago Lemos NM808 x Roland sneakers will be available starting on August 8 at 10:00 a.m. EDT for $114.99 on newbalance.com.

Roland Retail Celebrations: Tokyo and London
In Tokyo, Roland is teaming up with iconic streetwear brand XLARGE for a special 808 Day launch celebration at the Roland and XLARGE stores in the fashionable Harajuku District. The event will include live techno sets from REMO-CON, Yebisu303, and Ken Plus Ichiro, as well as an exclusive first look at the limited-edition XLARGE x 808 capsule collection, available for purchase in-store. The collection includes graphic t-shirts, hoodies, and accessories that fuse

XLARGE’s signature streetwear aesthetic with Roland’s iconic 808 design language. Guests will also have the rare opportunity to see the original TR-808 machine on display as part of the evening’s festivities.

Roland Store London is also hosting an in-store celebration today, presenting further opportunities for guests to purchase the XLARGE x 808 capsule collection in-person and online from around the world. In addition, the event includes live sets by DJ Complexion to keep guests moving for an upbeat, energized celebration.

Roland Cloud
A founding member of the Los Angeles rap scene, hip-hop legend Arabian Prince, best known for tracks like “Panic Zone” and “Situation Hot,” is coming to Roland Cloud users worldwide. The TR-808 Arabian Prince sound pack allows users to utilize his classic patterns and sequences like never before via a Roland Cloud Pro or Ultimate membership or Lifetime Key purchase.

Also, until 9/09 (September 9th), the TR-808 Software Rhythm Composer is available for only $49—an authentic option for easily accessing the classic 808 sound within DAWs."

TR-808 Software Rhythm Composer | FLASH SALE!

video upload by Roland Cloud

TR-808 Shootout // Can they live up to the LEGEND??

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The legendary Roland TR80*8 up against the *Roland TR-8S and the Behringer RD-8 Looking only at the sounds - or listening to them! - do they come anywhere close?

The TR-8S uses Roland's ACB technology, which is the same as the TR-8, Roland Cloud plugins and the Boutique TR-08 - so this has you covered for all of those. I'm using the RD-8 Mk2 - you cna tell because its got the black buttons, Mk1 had white.

I've gone through all the sounds (forgot the maracas in the demo bit) and showed how they differ. Taking into consideration no 2 808s will be identical I think they both stand up very well to the orginal TR808.

But if you want the exact sounds...

Buy my 495 samples here - every position on every knob!
https://www.starskycarr.com/patches/p..."

Wolvap Metal Distortion processing synthezisers/drum machine

video upload by AVP Synth

"Wolvap Metal Distortion effects pedal is designed using analog circuitry and precision high-quality components. It can produce a wide range of powerful sounds rich in harmonics to achieve distortion with high gain. Features three EQ bands – LOW, MID, HI. The METAL DISTORTION allows you to adjust the sound of your instruments over a wide range of spectrum.

Metal Distortion processing various synthesizers. [Korg Mono/Poly, Yocto Roland TR-808 clone]

Product page: www.avpsynth.com"



Wolvap Metal Distortion
This effects pedal is designed using analog circuitry and precision high-quality components. The METAL DISTORTION can produce a wide range of powerful sounds rich in harmonics to achieve distortion with high gain. It features three powerful EQ bands – LOW, MID, HI. The METAL DISTORTION allows you to adjust the sound of your instruments over an extremely broad spectrum.

Main features:

LOW control - provides up to 15dB of cut and boost in the bass frequency range

MID control - provides up to 15dB of cut and boost in the middle frequency range

HI control - provides up to 10dB of cut and boost in the treble frequency range

Input Impedance - 1 MΩ

Output impedance - 500 Ω

Recommended Load Impedance - 10 kΩ or greater

Power Supply – DC adapter 9V (center negative)

Current draw – 50 mA

Dimensions – 160(W) x110(D) x60(H) mm

Weight – 600 g

DC adapter 9V (not included)

Luke Million Studio Tour Update July 2025

video upload by Luke Million

"Following the Studio Tour Video I made last November, here is an update with recent acquisitions and changes to my workflow in my Studio.

Some highlights are the Moog Messenger, Arturia DrumBrute Impact 1984 Edition, Synido TempoPAD C16, Aly James Lab Vprom 3.0, Beyerdynamic DT1990 Pro, Modartt Pianoteq 8 and some Franklin Audio Devices.

The biggest change is in my 2nd Studio where the B Team is kept. I have connected those synths to a Franklin Audio SS-6 Switchable Input Stereo DI which then sends audio to my Universal Audio Volt 476 interface connected to a Macbook Pro Laptop.

You can view the original Studio Tour Video here -"

CLICK FOR MORE »