Roland TR-8S review
The Roland TR-8S: A Revolutionary Drum Machine for Modern Production
Introduction:
The Roland TR-8S is a groundbreaking drum machine that combines the best features of the iconic Roland drum machines with modern production techniques and extensive sound design. This innovative instrument offers unparalleled performance capabilities and allows users to create their dream drum kits using legendary drum sounds, FM sounds, and a vast selection of samples. With hands-on controls and production tools, the TR-8S is not limited to the studio but is also designed for live performances.
Design Kits with Authentic Sounds and Effects:
The Roland TR-8S comes with the largest and most authentic collection of TR drum machines available. These next-generation ACB models offer incredible detail and nuance, capturing the classic Roland thump, snap, and sizzle. In addition to the core TR drums, the TR-8S also features futuristic FM sounds and a wide range of preset and custom samples, allowing users to create unique hybrid and layered drum kits. Specialized effects further enhance the TR formula, enabling professional sound design.
Transistor Rhythms:
The TR-8S includes meticulously modeled versions of the most sought-after TR drum machines, such as the 808, 606, 909, 707, and 727, as well as custom versions. Unlike simple sample packs or recordings, each machine is a detailed model that faithfully reproduces the original hardware’s sound and behavior. These authentic TR sounds are readily available for use in productions and performances, providing users with endless creative possibilities.
Stellar FM Sounds:
The FM sounds in the TR-8S are truly out of this world, delivering silver drum hits and swirling tails that add depth and character to tracks. The Morph parameter allows users to explore a range of sonic variations by manipulating FM depth, ratio, and feedback with intuitive knob movements. This ultra-expressive macro control opens up new sonic possibilities and adds a unique touch to drum patterns.
ACB Meets Samples:
To stand out in today’s music landscape, rhythm tracks require a diverse set of sounds and production techniques. The TR-8S allows users to stack their own mono or stereo samples or choose from the extensive onboard collection, enabling them to create modern styles and develop their signature sound. Like the TR and FM sounds, samples can be deeply manipulated using hands-on controls for tuning, decay, start points, speed, and direction. Users can create kits entirely composed of samples or mix and match with FM and classic TR sounds, resulting in genre-defying drum tracks that demand attention.
Dramatic Effects:
The right effects can elevate a drum part by adding depth and space. The TR-8S offers a range of percussion-tailored effects that sound exceptional, including delay, overdrive, filters, and reverb. Each channel has a customizable CTRL knob, allowing users to shape the sound to their liking. Parameters such as kick attack, snare snap, phaser depth, and distortion amount can be assigned to the knobs and saved with the kit. Both instrument and master effects, along with their precise settings, are stored with each kit, ensuring that productions are always performance-ready.
Create Evolving Patterns:
Pattern creation on the TR-8S is intuitive and natural, thanks to the enhanced and modernized Roland “TR-REC” step sequencer. Users can program on the 16 TR-REC buttons or use the velocity-sensitive performance pad to play live or record into the sequencer. Switching between the two modes is seamless, allowing for uninterrupted workflow. The TR-8S offers intricate groove creation, detailed fills, and the ability to experiment with polyrhythms and complex meters by adjusting the length or “last step” of each drum part.
Variations for Dynamic Performances:
To keep performances fresh and exciting, the TR-8S can store 128 patterns, each with eight variations and three types of fills. Users can activate patterns or variations individually or chain them together for evolving performances. This versatility ensures that every live set remains engaging and dynamic.
Conclusion:
The Roland TR-8S is a revolutionary drum machine that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in modern production. With its authentic sounds, extensive sound design capabilities, and intuitive performance features, the TR-8S empowers musicians to create unique and captivating drum tracks. Whether in the studio or on stage, this instrument is a game-changer that will inspire creativity and elevate performances to new heights.
Alejandro Varga
January 7, 2024 @ 9:28 am
Thanks for the review! The TR-8S seems like a versatile and powerful drum machine. I appreciate the information on its capabilities and the overall sound quality. Can’t wait to try it out myself!
Stefan Müller
January 7, 2024 @ 9:28 am
I’ve been using the TR-8S for a few months now and it’s hands down the best drum machine I’ve ever owned. The sound quality is incredible and the range of features and flexibility it offers is unmatched. I love being able to create my own custom kits and the effects are top-notch. Highly recommend it to any electronic musician or producer!