The Roland TR-08 is an ultra-compact recreation of the legendary TR-808 drum machine in the Roland Boutique format. Using Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, it models every analog circuit of the original hardware to deliver the unmistakable booming bass drum, sizzling hi-hats, robotic rim shots, and iconic cowbell that defined hip-hop, house, techno, and electro.

ACB Sound Engine

The TR-08 retains the original TR-808's user interface, complete with miniaturized versions of the same tone, level, tuning, and decay knobs. It adds a built-in compressor, per-instrument gain, tune, and pan controls for selected instruments, and an LED display for precise tempo and shuffle adjustment. The sequencer maintains the classic Step and Tap write modes but adds 16 sub-steps per step, enabling detailed snare fills and intricate rolling hi-hat patterns that were impossible on the original.

A track-selectable trigger output connects to external gear like the TB-03, SH-01A, or modular synthesizers. Ten separate outputs via USB audio allow individual instrument routing to a DAW. You can step-program or tap in parts without stopping playback to change modes. All parameters send and receive MIDI control messages, and the USB port handles both audio streaming and MIDI communication.

Specifications

• Instruments: 11 (Bass Drum, Snare Drum, Low/Mid/Hi Conga or Low/Mid/Hi Tom, Claves or Rim Shot, Maracas or Hand Clap, Cow Bell, Cymbal, Open Hi-Hat, Closed Hi-Hat)
• User Memory: 16 banks (12x16 patterns, 4x16 Intro/Fill-In)
• Steps: 16 with 16 sub-steps each
• Effects: Compressor
• USB Audio Outputs: 10 separate channels
• Connectors: Trigger Out (3.5mm mono, track-selectable), Phones (3.5mm stereo), Output (3.5mm stereo), Mix In (3.5mm stereo), MIDI In/Out, USB Micro-B (Audio/MIDI)
• Display: 7-segment, 4-character LED
• Power: 4x AA batteries (approx. 6 hrs with NiMH) or USB bus power (500 mA)
• Built-in Speaker: Yes
• Construction: Metal front panel with DK-01 Boutique Dock (Black)
• Dimensions: 308 x 130 x 51 mm (12-1/8" x 5-1/8" x 2-1/16")
• Weight: 1.3 kg (2 lbs 14 oz) including batteries and dock

In the Box

• Roland TR-08
• DK-01 Boutique Dock (Black)
• Alkaline batteries (AA) x 4
• Owner's Manual
• DK-01 Owner's Manual