Device Overview

TR-08 Rhythm Composer

The TR-08 is Roland’s authentic recreation of the legendary TR-808 rhythm machine in a compact form. It uses Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology to faithfully reproduce the sound and behavior of the original 808.

Connections

Physical Inputs

• MIDI In (1 channel)
• Trigger In (CV)
• Mix In (Audio)

Physical Outputs

• MIDI Out (1 channel)
• Audio Out (1/8” stereo mini jack)
• Trigger Out (CV)

USB Connection

• USB 2.0 Type Micro-B
• 10 MIDI channels
• 11 Audio outputs (individual drums + master)

Drum Sounds

• Bass Drum: MIDI Ch 1, Note 36
• Snare Drum: MIDI Ch 1, Note 38
• Low Tom: MIDI Ch 1, Note 43
• Mid Tom: MIDI Ch 1, Note 47
• Hi Tom: MIDI Ch 1, Note 50
• Rim Shot: MIDI Ch 1, Note 37
• Hand Clap: MIDI Ch 1, Note 39
• Closed Hi-Hat: MIDI Ch 1, Note 42
• Open Hi-Hat: MIDI Ch 1, Note 46
• Cowbell: MIDI Ch 1, Note 56

Common Settings

Classic Hip-Hop Beat

• Bass Drum: Strong accent on beat 1, lighter on beat 3
• Snare Drum: Beats 2 and 4
• Closed Hi-Hat: Eighth note pattern
• Open Hi-Hat: Occasional off-beat accents

House Pattern

• Bass Drum: Four-on-the-floor (every beat)
• Snare/Clap: Beats 2 and 4
• Closed Hi-Hat: Sixteenth note pattern
• Open Hi-Hat: Off-beat accents

Notes

• The TR-08 is smaller than the original TR-808
• Features added USB audio interface capabilities not present in the original
• Can be battery powered for portable use
• Original TR-808 was produced from 1980-1983
• Sound became foundational for hip-hop, house, techno, and many other electronic music genres