Roland TR-08 Drum Machine A Boutique Clone Of The Classic 808

On 808 Day, Roland has introduced a Boutique-style clone of their classic 808 drum machine.

The Roland TR-08 Rhythm Composer is a Boutique-format version of the original. It uses analog circuit modeling to recreate the original’s sound and has a scaled-down version of 808’s interface.

The TR-08 offers 10-channel audio via USB, trigger out and can run on batteries. 

Roland TR-08 Intro Video:

Here’s Roland’s intro video, featuring Jimmy Jam, Egyptian Lover, Principleasure, Shy Boogs, Marley Marl, Nadus, DJ Jazzy Jeff and Juan Atkins:

Features:

  • Ultra-compact recreation of the legendary TR-808 drum machine
  • Retains the sound, character, and user interface of the original TR-808
  • Hands-on control including tone, level, tuning, and decay
  • Added Compressor, Gain, Tune, and Pan for selected instruments
  • Programmable via classic Step and Tap write modes
  • Sequencer has 16 steps with 16 sub-steps for detailed patterns and rolls
  • Continue playing beats even while switching between write modes
  • LED display for easier navigation and fine control of tempo and shuffle
  • Ten separate outputs via USB audio
  • Dedicated, track-selectable trigger output for controlling external instruments
  • High-quality construction with metal front panel
  • Highly portable for mobile music making
  • Includes DK-01 Boutique Dock for multiple-angle viewing
  • Battery-operated (4 x AA) or USB powered
  • Built-in powered mini-speaker for instant enjoyment
  • Compatible with optional Roland Boutique accessories

Pricing and Availability

The Roland TR-08 is expected to have a street price of about US $349 and be available in Sept. See the Roland site for details.

25 thoughts on “Roland TR-08 Drum Machine A Boutique Clone Of The Classic 808

    1. You really wrote the same comment on each Roland news this morning? Your life must be more boring than Roland’s new offerings.

      1. And you’ve read it, mate.

        Just imagine what happens if Behringer puts out a full-size(!) TR808 for roundabout 350 bucks.

        😉

        1. Yes I did read it. Its the first comment and you posted it every threads today, but do I care? 😉

          Sure it would be neat if Behringer release something like that, but still there will be people like you complaining that its boring in the comments.

      2. He’s not wrong though. These products are boring. They offer nothing that Roland hasn’t already offered in better formats in the past and the Boutiques are a waste of money compared to the other Aira machines.

  1. since its acb, might aswell go software. there is plenty alternatives, save up on space and integrate better with the daw.
    no idea what they are thinking, other then milking the brand.

  2. hahahahaha i actually think this is awesome, not complaining about the availability of this but that video is laughable, i mean come on these kinds of artist gushing love endorsements are kind of ridiculous. but cool, very cool to have this option.

  3. you know as non impressive an offering of an 808 is – it is really tempting if i get it used or on sale to have a battery operated backpackable hardware 808

  4. I did order one (I used to have an 808 back in the 80’s/90’s), but what would make me nuts would be a boutique CR-78!

  5. Title is incorrect. This is not a “clone”. It is 100% DIGITAL. The original was 100% ANALOG.

    That said, if it’s Aira quality (24/96) DA conversion and internal processing, it might sound pretty good.

  6. Well, I love it, but once again, I don’t personally like working with micro machines and micro keyboards. Would love to have bought a full size version.

  7. Can anybody tell me if it can make the “trigger out” noise that was integral to so many of The Egyptian Lover’s biggest hits? The TR8 omitted it and it’s a really cool Kraftwerkian sound. I really hope it’s in there as an Easter egg or something.

  8. The concept is ok, but I really prefer the Boutique Series is rackmount-compatible (say 3U). The minified size is the only reason I don’t want this. And I’m satisfied with, for example, my MS2000R interface.

  9. Perfect ! Who cares about the opinion of owners of the originals they are just jalous the own a 10 times to much payed for drum machine thats 35 years old and not far from going to die ,know they can buy the new and improved version

  10. I have been in search of an original Roland TR-808 for a couple of years now. I primarily wanted it for NOSTALGIA reasons, but NO WAY am i going to pay 4K+ for one. NEVER!!! (Maybe if it were BRAND SPANKIN NEW in the box). Well anyways, I picked up the Roland TR-08 And I must say that I am very pleased/impressed. This little thing is a Tank (Very Solid). I’m seriously considering picking up the TR-09 and TB-03 as well. For all of the people who are downing the product, I would love to see you decipher the two on a final production of a song.
    I hate it when people speak on something that they’ve have not even experienced yet!
    DON’T KNOCK IT, UNTIL YOU’VE TRIED IT!

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