In a move that’ll please lots of longtime fans, Roland have just announced the launch of their first new drum machine with true analogue voices in over 40 years. Building on the legacy of the iconic TR-808 and TR-909, the TR-1000 Rhythm Creator combines a selection of analogue drum voices with the latest advancements in digital sampling and processing, all complemented by a performance-focused interface.
Return Of The TR
Roland say that the new arrival “launches the legendary TR heritage into the future with a bold mission: to inspire a culture hungry for the next wave of rhythmic experimentation”. It comes loaded with 16 of the most popular circuits from both the TR-808 and TR-909, all of which have been faithfully recreated according to their original designs using carefully selected modern components. The core analogue voices are joined by a comprehensive selection of digital options, including 21 circuit-bent TR-808 and TR-909 models created using Roland’s Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, FM percussion, virtual analogue tones and a PCM sound library.
Sampling & Effects
The instrument boasts some powerful built-in tools such as stereo sampling and re-sampling, BPM sync, seamless time-stretching, and non-destructive slice editing. The onboard 64 GB memory comes with a curated collection of 2000 samples, and leaves users with 46GB of free storage for their own captures, edits and imported samples. There’s no shortage of effects, either, with a newly designed analogue state-variable filter inspired by vintage Roland OTA designs joined by a dedicated analogue overdrive and a selection of digital processors. Each of the unit’s tracks includes a model-specific sound generator, a compressor, a multi-mode filter/four-band EQ and an amp/envelope control; four of the available tracks allow two sound generators to be stacked or programmed separately with per-track effects, internal side-chaining, output routing and a three-target LFO.
Sequencer
As for sequencing, the TR-1000 expands on the familiar TR workflow and is said to focus on feel and flexibility. Users can program sounds quickly, while rhythms can be shaped and modified in real time thanks to an extensive set of pattern tools, expressive controls and new off-grid options. An ergonomic panel layout encourages creative exploration, and a new Morph slider makes it possible to trigger radical transformations with simple movements, while a Snapshot feature creates playable step buttons that can instantly recall any knob position.
The TR-1000's rear panel houses a comprehensive selection of audio, MIDI, CV and DIN Sync I/O.
Connectivity
Designed with integration in mind, the new arrival features a comprehensive set of I/O and offers some flexible routing configurations that allow it to become part of any modern studio or modular rig. Mix and effects outputs are joined by 10 individual track/trigger outputs, along with an external audio input and four trigger/CV outputs. a trio of five-pin DIN sockets offer a MIDI input and two MIDI/DIN Sync outputs, while connections for a host computer and external devices are handled by a pair of USB ports. Many will also be pleased to see that the device is kitted out with an internal power supply.
Pricing & Availability
The TR-1000 is available now, priced at $2699.99.
