Roland Adds to its Aira Lineup with the TR-8S

Roland have announced an update to their popular TR-8 drum machine. The new TR-8S, expands on the original TR-8 drum machine by adding sample playback and layering capabilities. The TR-8S has an extensive collection of preset samples on board and also allows users to import their own mono or stereo sounds using the SD card slot. Samples have a basic range of tweakable parameters including decay adjustment and tuning, sample start points, speed, and direction. Kits can be created entirely from samples or combined with the onboard ACB based TR sounds.

TR-8S also comes with percussion-tuned effects. In addition to the Master FX knob, each channel has a customizable CTRL knob. Nearly any parameter can be assigned the CTRL knob or Master FX knob and saved with the kit. Both Instrument and Master Effects, along with their precise settings, are also saved with each kit.

Patterns can be programmed using the 16 step buttons or via the velocity sensitive performance pad.

The TR-8S now joins a wide array of similar products from other manufactures. Some of our favourites include:

• Arturia Drumbrute
• Korg Electribe/Electribe S
• Teenage Engineering OP-1
• Electron Digitakt