Roland introduced the TR-1000, the first analog drum machine in 40 years

The new Roland TR-1000 Rhythm Generator instrument combines 16 analog circuits from the iconic TR-808 and TR-909 models with modern sound design, sequencing and sampling tools.

Returning to the roots

A company that has long skirted the analog synthesizer boom has decided to fill the gap. Unlike recent Roland instruments that have used digital technologies like Zen-Core, ACB modeling and the Roland Cloud service, the new TR-1000 is built on live analog circuits that replicate the authentic sound of its legendary predecessors.

The new TR-1000 is built on live analog circuits, replicating the authentic sound of its legendary predecessors.

The TR-1000 recreates the 16 analog sound circuits of the 808 and 909, and offers state-of-the-art sound design and sequencing tools. The analog timbres are complemented by ACB sounds, FM percussion, PCM samples, and powerful sampling tools, from timestretching loops to slicing drum breaks.

A hybrid of features

The unit features an analog-driven stereo filter that lets you add distortion and build dynamic transitions. The control panel includes a multitude of knobs, faders and buttons – the manufacturer clearly wanted to get away from the cluttered menus that characterize the company’s current instruments.

But the TR-1000 is still more of a studio instrument: its impressive size makes it less convenient for live performances.

Price and positioning

The new product costs $2,699.99. That’s noticeably higher than amateur solutions, but about half the price of working copies of the TR-808 or TR-909 on the vintage market. For musicians looking for authentic analog sound, the TR-1000 can be not only a modern alternative, but also a relatively affordable way to get the legendary Roland sound.