subject: Roland Drum Machines: Don't Do Anything Until You Read This! [print this page] One of the best Roland drum machines I have used (even though it's super old school) is the TR-808, which you can pick up on ebay right now.
Back in the 80's it was one of the first drum machines you could actually program, and at the time that was a massive deal.
When the 808 first came out it was mainly meant to be used for home demos and I have to say that the sounds on there don't really sound much like a real drum kit. But for me that's the whole point. I use the 808 for really old school sounding hip hop and it works wicked good!
Think early NWA stuff...
If you want to get a really authentic drum sound you should not go for one of these crazy old school Roland drum machines. Maybe think about something from the new DR Rhythm range, which are also excellent.
It really makes me laugh to think that the TR-808 cost $1000 when it was release. A lot of people think the sounds are totally rubbish.
But even Mavin Gaye used it on the super massive hit Sexual Healing!
Wow!
Since the more realistic drum machines appeared on the market the TR-808 started to loose popularity. But made a big comeback as a cheap beat maker for hip hop artists to make tracks for a low cost.
The Beasties Boys used the 808 all the time and just added samples from rock songs which sounded really cool.
If you want to create some classic old school sounds you can still find them on ebay for a good price.
Final thoughts.
I love it when I hear the 808 sound on modern hip hop tracks today. They've put them thought a bunch of processing but you can still hear those old beats kicking out like always.
On of the best Roland drum machines ever.
Give it a go.
Roland Drum Machines: Don't Do Anything Until You Read This!
