Roland’s TR-08 reimagines the world’s most famous drum machine as a Boutique Series module. Power it up and you’ll hear the same sizzling hi-hats, snappy snare, clicky rimshot, unmistakable cowbell, and legendary booming bass drum that made the original iconic.
More than a faithful recreation, the TR-08 adds modern enhancements such as a sequencer with 16 sub-steps per step, a track-selectable trigger output, a discreet LED display, and USB-MIDI connectivity. The result is a perfect balance of obsessive detail, respect for legacy, and modern performance.
Roland modeled the TR-08 directly from the original TR-808 down to the component level using their proprietary Analog Circuit Behavior technology. Introduced in 1980, the TR-808 was initially discontinued due to its unconventional sound, only to be rediscovered and elevated to legendary status by hip-hop pioneers.
From underground beginnings to mainstream dominance, the TR-808’s robotic rhythms and earth-shaking kick drum helped define entire genres. Today, its sound remains a cornerstone of electronic, dance, and hip-hop music.
While the original TR-808 is a classic, its limited features can restrict modern workflows. The TR-08 expands the formula with practical updates, including a 16-step sequencer with sub-steps for detailed fills, a track-selectable trigger out for easy integration, real-time step or tap programming, and full MIDI and USB-MIDI support.
Additional controls for compression, gain, tuning, and pan provide deeper sound shaping, making the TR-08 a powerful creative tool for today’s producers.
The TR-08 is an obsessively detailed and faithful replica of the legendary TR-808—widely regarded as the most famous and influential drum machine ever made. After creating a monumental shift in the sound of music, the “808” went on to define entire genres and remains one of the most revered electronic instruments of all time.
The TR-08 brings the unmistakable look, sound, and feel of the original TR-808 to Roland’s Boutique format with stunning accuracy. It seamlessly blends respect for legacy with modern convenience, reliability, and portability.
When the TR-808 debuted in 1980, its analog sound and flexible controls puzzled many musicians. Its drum sounds didn’t conform to traditional expectations—but adventurous producers quickly discovered its true potential. Soon, its sizzling hi-hats, snappy snare, robotic rimshot, iconic cowbell, and earth-shaking bass drum became staples of countless recordings.
Over the next several decades, the TR-808 helped spawn worldwide hits, underground classics, and entire genres. Its influence runs so deep that it has been name-checked in songs, inspired albums and bands, and even been the subject of a feature-length documentary.
The influence of the TR-808 has only grown with time. Modern genres continue to embrace it as a defining sound, and while samples exist, nothing compares to the real instrument. The physical interface—its knobs, buttons, switches, and unique sonic interactions—is essential to achieving authentic 808 magic.
The TR-08 enhances the classic experience with modern refinements. A sequencer with 16 sub-steps per step enables intricate snare fills and rolling hi-hats, while a track-selectable trigger output allows integration with modular gear and other Roland instruments. MIDI control, USB audio and MIDI, and real-time programming elevate the TR-08 into a powerful contemporary production tool.
Original TR-808 units are large, heavy, rare, and extremely expensive. The TR-08 delivers the essence of the original in a compact, affordable, and reliable form. Its sound is vibrant and alive thanks to Roland’s proprietary Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, which models each analog circuit down to the component level.
Designed for life beyond the studio, the TR-08 is rugged, highly portable, and built for live performance. It offers multiple viewing angles, a built-in speaker, battery operation, and low-latency audio interfacing. With its authentic sound, modern features, and accessible price, the TR-08 puts the legendary 808 experience within reach of anyone who’s ever dreamed of owning the original.
| Type | Drum Composer/Sequencer |
|---|---|
| Pads | 16 x trigger buttons |
| Sounds | Bass drum, Snare, Low conga/tom, Mid conga/tom, Hi conga/tom, Claves, Rim shot, Maracas, Hand clap, Cow bell, Cymbal, Hi-hat |
| Patterns | 16 banks (12 x 16 patterns, 4 x 16 intro/fills) |
| Sequencer | 16-steps, 16 sub-steps |
| Effects | Compression |
| Analog Inputs | 1 x 1/8" (mix in) |
| Analog Outputs | 1 x 1/8" (output) |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/8" |
| MIDI I/O | In/Out |
| Other I/O | 1 x 1/8" (trigger out) |
| USB | 1 x Type Micro-B |
| Power Source | 4 x AA batteries / USB bus powered |
| Height | 2.06" |
| Width | 12.12" |
| Depth | 5.12" |
| Weight | 2 lbs. 14 oz. |
| Manufacturer Part Number | TR08 UPC: 761294511466 |
