2 Introduction For details on the settings for the DAW software that you’re using, refer to the DAW’s help or manuals. About Trademarks. VST is a trademark and software of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH. A Legend in the Making. In 1980, the Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer was released as a quick and easy songwriting tool for musicians. At the time, the high cost of memory drove Roland engineers to use analog synthesis instead of samples for its sounds. Through a series of happy accidents, they utilized unique transistors, creating a one-of-a-kind. The TR-808 Software Synthesizer is a detailed replica of the legendary TR-808—one of the most revered and sought-after electronic music instruments of all time. The plug-in version offers the sound and behavior of the original plus new features that virtually modify the hardware for more sound choices and faster, more fluid programming. Roland released the TR-808 ‘Rhythm Composer’ drum machine in 1980 and discontinued it just three years later in 1983. This was due to poor sales and the fact faulty transistors needed for its characteristic sound were no longer available! In total Roland sold fewer than 12,000 units. Fast forward and in 2020, TR-808 used prices hover around.
TRY OUT ROLAND’S LEGENDARY TR-808 PLUGIN FOR FREE, ALL AUGUST.
Classic 808 Sounds, Right in Your DAW
Have you ever wanted to try the authentic Roland TR-808? To hear the real original sounds? Do you want to get to know the drum machine that changed music? Now's your chance!
Test drive the Roland TR-808 Software Rhythm Composer and all of our TR-808 patch collections from August 8th to 31st, for free with a Roland Account—no membership required.*
Celebrate the Storied Past of the Roland TR-808 on its 40th Anniversary!
Roland invented the 808, and now we’ve brought it to life in your DAW.
Painstaking Modeling
Using our proprietary Analog Circuit Behavior technology, we’ve recreated the original analog circuits that are the essence of the TR-808’s distinct sound, so your tracks have that classic boom, snap, and sizzle.
Modern Features To Bring Your Tracks To Life
We’ve added some extra features not found on the original 808. Now you have a fully-featured edit window, sub-outs with no cables and you can even drag patterns right from the plugin to your DAW project!
Download Roland Cloud Manager, Signup for a FREE Roland Account, and Install the AU, AAX, or VST TR-808 Plugin!
*Test Drive is a time based activation of the TR-808 instrument and patch collections. After August 31st, access to the TR-808 will only be available as a Lifetime Key purchase or in Pro or Ultimate memberships.
The Thing That Goes Boom
In 1980, the Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer was released to an unsuspecting and somewhat bewildered public. To many at the time, its tweakable analog tones didn’t exactly deliver “traditional” or 'realistic' drum sounds. It wasn’t until after a few adventurous musicians and producers got their hands on the TR-808 and started tweaking those knobs that the world would feel the impact it would leave on music forever. For decades since, the sizzling hi-hats and snappy snare, the clicky rim shot, the unmistakable cowbell, and yes—that booming bass drum—have been heard on worldwide hits and underground classics. Its influence is so deep that it’s been name-dropped in famous tracks, had albums dedicated to it, bands named after it, and is even the subject of a feature-length documentary film.
That 8 Oh 8
The Roland TR-808 is one of the most revered and sought-after electronic musical instruments of all time—and its influence only continues to grow. New musical genres make heavy use of the 808, with some utilizing it as the main instrument and defining sound of the style. The Roland TR-808 is so desirable that original units sell for thousands of dollars on the used market and it's often been imitated with sound-alike sample-packs, less-than-faithful apps, and knock-offs. But the 808 is a complex beast and far more than the sum of its parts. Its iconic user interface and the unique personality created by the sounds responding and interacting with each other are vitally important to conjuring up that authentic TR-808 mojo. And you know it when you hear it.
The Return of The King
Roland Tr-808 Vst Reddit
Roland Tr 808 Vst Review
Using our proprietary Analog Circuit Behavior technology, we’ve painstakingly recreated the original analog circuits that are the essence of the TR-808’s distinct sound. All the nuance and detail are accounted for resulting in a living, breathing Roland TR-808 for your DAW. This software adaption not only sounds and acts true-to-life, but it injects new and exciting enhancements into the classic 808 formula. Each pattern has eight variations so you can create evolving sequences that keep things interesting. The classic 16-step 'TR-REC' sequencer can be expanded to include a sequencer lane for each drum instrument so you can program faster and more fluidly. The sequencer has adjustable flams and sub-steps so you can create detailed fills and ratcheting sequences. And each instrument has its own “last step” and shuffle settings so you can play with timing, experiment with polyrhythms, and dial in just the right groove for your tracks. You can even drag patterns from the TR-808 directly into your DAW as MIDI or audio clips!