Roland Virtual Sonics has announced the release of the first-ever TR-808 Software Rhythm Composer to the Roland Cloud service.
Part of the Roland Cloud 5.1 Update, Roland’s authentic software reproduction of the original TR-808 Rhythm Composer it is now available as both a VST and AU plugin for use in popular digital audio workstations.
The TR-808 is one of the most revered and sought-after electronic musical instruments of all time. It 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 character created by the sounds responding to and interacting with each other are vitally important to conjuring up that authentic TR-808 personality.
Using its revolutionary Analog Circuit Behavior technology, Roland has painstakingly recreated the original analog circuits that are the essence of the TR-808’s distinctive sound. Every nuance and detail present in the original hardware is accounted for, resulting in a living, breathing TR-808. This software adaption not only sounds and acts true-to-life, but it also injects new and exciting enhancements into the classic 808 formula.
For example, each pattern has eight variations, allowing creators the ability to define evolving sequences with limitless possibilities. The classic 16-step “TR-REC” sequencer can be expanded to include a sequencer lane for each drum instrument so users can program faster and more fluidly. The built-in sequencer has adjustable flams and sub-steps so that detailed fills and ratcheting sequences can easily be created. Each instrument has its own “last step” and shuffle settings for atomic timing control, experimentation with polyrhythms, and to dial in just the right groove for a track. Musicians and producers can even drag patterns from the TR-808 directly into their DAW as MIDI or audio clips.
“The team at Roland Virtual Sonics is overjoyed to add Roland’s first official software TR-808 to the burgeoning catalog of powerhouse instruments already available via the Roland Cloud service. The Roland TR-808 was responsible for shaping entire genres of music, and we can’t wait to hear how it continues to do so in the future, especially now that it is more attainable than ever,” said Roland Virtual Sonics Co-Director Jeremy Soule.
The TR-808 is now available to Roland Cloud Core Members via the Roland Cloud Manager. New users can sign up for a 30-day free trial.
More information: Roland Cloud
