Roland TR-08 Rhythm Composer Boutique Multicolor

The most famous rhythm machine’s powerful low-end and sizzle, a convenient size and modern format – reborn in the [Roland] Boutique series.

The TR-808, affectionately known as “808 = Yaoya,” revolutionized the sounds of various genres of music and was highly acclaimed by musicians and producers worldwide, becoming a beloved electronic instrument even today.

The TR-08 faithfully miniaturizes the TR-808’s appearance, sound, and operational feel using the latest modeling technology as a [Roland] Boutique.

While retaining the TR-808’s attention to detail and traditional sound, it achieves even greater convenience through the latest digital technology.

Product Specifications External Dimensions (including Boutique Dock) (Width x Depth x Height): 308 x 130 x 51 mm Weight (including batteries and Boutique Dock): 1.3 kg Accessories: Boutique Dock: DK-01, Owner’s Manual, DK-01 Owner’s Manual, Alkaline Batteries (AAA size) x 4

・Released in 1980, the TR-808 rhythm box, due to its fully analog nature and parameter instability, could not produce “accurate” drum sounds in the conventional sense, initially perplexing many musicians. However, it subsequently gained a completely different reputation as musicians and producers used the TR-808 to create new beats and sounds. Even 30 years after its release, the 808’s unique sounds – mechanical claps, a bass drum you can feel in your body, shimmering cymbals, and lively cowbells – can be heard in countless tracks across all genres, from popular to underground, around the world. The TR-808, which continues to shake halls tonight, has become a product with the influence to inspire song titles, albums, unit names, and even documentary films that tell its history.

・Even after many years since the birth of the TR-808, its value has not diminished. In the latest tracks and mixes, the “808 = Yaoya” sound still makes its presence felt. Today, 808 sounds are readily available through synthesizer integration and downloadable libraries. However, there is still something missing in the TR-808. It may be its look, user interface, or the quirks caused by interference between instruments, or perhaps it is simply a preconceived notion. But the “sequence” everyone has heard is surely a special piece of music that only the TR-808 can play.

・And today, the TR-08, revived by ACB technology. This next-generation 808 features several new innovations not found in the original. The sequencer is equipped with sub-steps for each step, allowing for detailed creation using off-beat rhythms, expanding the variations and expression of snare and hi-hat rolls. The newly added track-selectable trigger output enables syncing with the TB-03, SH-01A, and modular synthesizers. The 7-segment LEDs allow for fine-grained settings of tempo and shuffle. Furthermore, steps can be programmed in real-time without changing modes. Of course, all parameters can be sent and received via MIDI, and the built-in USB audio/MIDI interface allows for easy integration into various modern productions.

・The original TR-808, along with its size and weight, was rarely seen in the market due to its rarity, making it difficult to obtain even on the used market. Therefore, many have used sound libraries and substitute hardware to incorporate that unique drum sound that everyone recognizes as the TR-808. The TR-08 accurately reproduces not only the sound of the TR-808 but also the workflow involved in sound creation within a compact body. The sound is reproduced with meticulous accuracy, recreating every detail and quirk of the original hardware through [Roland]’s proprietary ACB (Analog Circuit Behavior) technology, which reproduces each analog circuit at the component level. It recreates the sound and sequence as if it were a living thing.

・The TR-08 not only reproduces the sound and look & feel but also combines convenience made possible by modern technology. The TR-08 is lightweight, compact, and robust, and also features a built-in speaker and battery operation, making it ideal for live performances and beat-making anywhere, anytime. In addition, the included Boutique Dock “DK-01” allows for two-stage tilt-up, ensuring visibility depending on the setup for live performances or studio work. The TR-08 also functions as a low-latency portable USB audio/MIDI interface. When connected to a PC, 10 outputs are possible. The TR-08 retains the TR-808’s attention to detail and traditional sound while achieving even greater convenience through the latest digital technology.

【Voltage Compatibility】 When using electrical appliances, please note that they are designed for Japanese voltage specifications (90-110V), so if you use them with a different voltage, it may cause a malfunction.

【Plug Type】 Our products use Japanese plug types (A or B type). Please use a conversion adapter if necessary.

【Important Note on Transformers and Adapters】 A transformer adjusts voltage to match your device's requirements. A conversion adapter only changes the plug shape and does not adjust voltage. Using only a conversion adapter without a transformer may result in damage to the product.

【Liability】 We are not responsible for malfunctions or damages caused by improper use, such as operating the product without a transformer.