Roland TR-08
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
Roland
TR-08
Product Info
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
The TR-08 is a fantastic little package for anyone craving that unmistakable 808 vibe without the bulk or expense of vintage gear. It's a great starting point for beatmakers and a fun addition for seasoned producers wanting a quick and easy 808 fix—just be aware of its size limitations for live performance.
Product Description
- Roland TR-08
- Drum machine
- Compact replica of the legendary TR-808 drum machine
- Sound character
- behaviour and user interface as the original
- Controls of the corresponding instruments: Tone
- Level
- Tuning
- Decay
- Compressor
- Gain
- Tune
- 16-step sequencer / 16-sub-steps / 16 memory banks (12 x 16 pattern / 4 x 16 intro / fill-in)
- Programmable by classic "Step & Tap"
- Uninterrupted playing even when switching modes
- LED display
- 10 separate outputs via USB audio
- Assignable trigger output for controlling external instruments
- Solid metal construction
- Contains Roland DK-01 Boutique Dock for adjusting various angles
- Powered by 4 AA batteries or USB power
- Built-in mini speaker
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 308 x 130 x 51 mm
- Weight (including batteries and boutique dock): 1.3 kg
PROS
- • Solid metal chassis provides robust durability for stage use
- • Faithful recreation of the 808’s iconic, punchy drum sounds
- • Compact size and dock offer surprising portability and workflow flexibility
- • Assignable trigger output expands creative possibilities with external gear
CONS
- • Mini speaker lacks serious volume for larger performance spaces
- • Limited sequencing capabilities compared to more advanced drum machines
- • The TR-08’s interface, while classic, can feel slightly cramped.
Product Video
Key Features
Pads
Rubber pads, responsive but lack the feel of larger pads
Sounds/Kits
Classic 808 drum sounds; kick, snare, hi-hats, claps, cymbals, etc.
Sequencer Steps
16-step sequencer with 16 sub-steps, 16 memory banks
Effects
Compressor, Tone, Decay, Gain, Tune, Pan controls per drum
Connections
USB audio (10 outputs), Assignable trigger output, DC input, MIDI In/Out
Weight
1.3 kg (including batteries and dock)
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Frequently Asked Questions
It's remarkably close, though the original has a certain warmth from aging components. The TR-08 captures the core character well and offers modern conveniences.
Absolutely! The USB audio interface makes syncing straightforward, providing 10 individual outputs for precise control within your digital audio workstation.
The metal chassis is a major plus; it’s significantly more robust than many other similarly priced devices, but protect it from serious impacts.
