Description
The Roland TR-8S Rhythm Performer combines legendary TR-808, 909, 606, 707, 727, and CR-78 sounds with modern ACB modeling, FM synthesis, and full sample import for complete creative control. Build custom kits by layering classic drums, FM tones, and your own samples, then shape them with hands-on controls and professional effects. Its enhanced TR-REC sequencer offers 128 patterns, variations, fills, motion recording, and probability for dynamic, evolving grooves. Designed for both studio and stage, it features eight assignable outputs, trigger out, external inputs, and USB audio/MIDI integration. Powerful, flexible, and performance-ready, the TR-8S is a modern rhythm production powerhouse.

Authentic TR & CR Sound Engine
Powered by Roland’s Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, the TR-8S faithfully recreates iconic drum machines like the TR-808, 909, 606, 707, 727, and CR-78 with detailed, circuit-level accuracy for true analog character.

FM Synthesis & Sample Import
Expand beyond classic sounds with fully editable FM drum engines and the ability to import your own mono or stereo samples via SD card, allowing deep customization and hybrid kit creation.

Advanced Sequencer
The enhanced TR-REC step sequencer offers 128 patterns with variations, fills, probability, motion recording, and real-time controls, making it ideal for evolving grooves in both studio production and live sets.

Studio & Stage Connectivity
Equipped with eight assignable analog outputs, trigger out, external inputs, and multi-channel USB audio/MIDI interface, the TR-8S integrates seamlessly with mixers, DAWs, and live performance rigs.
Eight assignable analog outputs for flexible routing to mixers and external processors.
Includes a dedicated trigger output for syncing external drum machines and synths.
Provides external audio inputs for integrating additional sound sources into patterns and effects.
Functions as a multi-channel USB audio/MIDI interface for direct multitrack recording to a DAW.
Enables seamless studio and live integration with reliable tempo sync and digital connectivity.
Supports separate routing of kick, snare, and individual instruments for precise FOH or studio mixing control.
Delivers stable MIDI clock sync for tight integration with hardware sequencers and modular systems.
Allows USB multitrack streaming so each drum channel records independently in your DAW.
Enables hybrid performance setups by processing external gear through onboard effects.
Provides flexible output assignment for parallel compression, outboard FX chains, or monitor mixes.
Maintains low-latency USB audio performance for reliable live and studio recording sessions.
Item Type: Drum Machine
Sound Generation: Analog Modeling / Sample-Based
Number of Pads:
16x RGB Backlit Pad
1x Velocity-Sensitive Pad
Transport Controls: Yes: Record, Stop, Play
Display: LCD (Backlit)
Standalone Operation: Yes
Number of Sounds, Kits, or Samples:
128x User Drum Kit
150x Sample
Drum Sounds:
11x Kick/Bass Drum
8x Snare
19x Tom
3x Rim Shot
5x Clap
8x Hi-Hat
8x Cymbal
23x Percussion
Number of Rhythm Pattern Presets: 128x User Pattern
Sampling Formats: AIFF, WAV (Load/Import)
Maximum Sample Length:
600 Seconds Total for All Samples (at 44.1 kHz, Mono)
180 Seconds per Sample (at 44.1 kHz)
Built-In Effects:
17x Instrument FX: Thru, HPF, LPF, LPF/HPF, H Boost, L Boost, L/H Boost, Isolator, Transient, Compressor, Drive, Comp+Drv, Crusher, Saturator, Freq Shift, Ring Mod, Spread
6x Reverb: Ambi, Room, Hall 1, Hall 2, Plate, Mod
3x Delay: Delay, Pan, Tape Echo
19x Master FX: HPF, LPF, LPF/HPF, H Boost, L Boost, L/H Boost, Isolator, Transient, Transient 2, Compressor, Drive, Overdrive, Distortion, Fuzz, Crusher, Phaser, Flanger, SBF, Noise, Scatter (as One of the Auto Fill-In functions)
Sequencer:
Number of Steps: 16x Step
Number of Step Buttons: 16
Number of Parts: 12
Number of Sequencer Patterns: 128x User
Input/Record Modes: Real-Time Record, Step Record
Playback & Features: Accent, Flam, FX, Substep Probability
Max Audio Recording Time: 3 Minutes
Audio I/O:
1x 1/4″ TRS Headphone Output
2x 1/4″ TRS Balanced Mix Output (1 Stereo Pair)
2x 1/4″ Aux Input (1 Stereo Pair)
Trigger Device & Pedal Inputs: 1x 1/4″ Drum Trigger Input
MIDI I/O:
1x DIN 5-Pin Input
1x DIN 5-Pin Output
CV/Gate I/O:
6x 1/4″ Trigger/Assignable Output
1x 1/8″ / 3.5 mm Trigger Output
USB I/O: 1x USB-B (Host Connection, MIDI)
Media/Memory Card Slot: Single Slot: SD/SDHC
Required Hardware: USB 2.0 Port
Internet Connection: Required for Software/Driver Download
Power Requirements: AC/DC Power Adapter (Included)
AC/DC Power Adapter: Included
Current Consumption: 2000 mA
Color: Black
Included Accessories: Power Cord
Dimensions: 16.1 x 10.4 x 2.3″ / 409 x 236 x 58 mm
Weight: 4.6 lb / 2.1 kg











