Roland TR-808

Find refurbished and second-hand units, compare options and discover everything you need to know about this equipment.

There are currently no Roland TR-808 units available

Frequently asked questions about Roland TR-808

From which country can I buy a Roland TR-808 from Sounds Market?

You can purchase a Sounds Market certified Roland TR-808 from any country in the European Union. We ship to Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Sweden, among other EU countries, with the exception of some island countries and territories. If the Roland TR-808 is offered by a private seller, shipping options are more limited.

Is the Roland TR-808 analog or digital?

The Roland TR-808 is an analog drum machine that generates its sounds using electronic circuits, rather than playing recorded samples. Its deep kick drum, handclaps, and hi-hats have a very recognizable character that has influenced genres such as hip-hop, electro, and house music.

What makes the Roland TR-808 special?

The TR-808 stands out for its analog synthesis, 16-step sequencer, and the ability to individually adjust its sounds. Its bass drum, with its strong bass presence, and its distinctive handclaps have become benchmarks in music production. Its influence on hip-hop, electro, and electronic music has made it a cult classic.

What musical styles is the Roland TR-808 used for?

The Roland TR-808 is used in hip-hop, electro, house, techno, R&B, and experimental electronic music. Its deep kick drum creates highly recognizable bass lines, while its snares, handclaps, and hi-hats add character to rhythmic patterns. It is especially appreciated by producers seeking classic, analog-influenced sounds.

Can the Roland TR-808 be synchronized with other equipment?

Yes. The TR-808 features sync and trigger connections that allow you to integrate it with other compatible instruments and studio equipment. It also has individual outputs for processing your sounds separately using a mixer, external effects, or an audio interface, expanding your production possibilities.

Is it worth buying a used Roland TR-808?

Yes, especially for producers and collectors seeking the original sound of this classic drum machine. However, being a vintage instrument over four decades old, it's advisable to check the functionality of all sounds, potentiometers, buttons, sequencer, and connections. Purchasing a professionally serviced unit can help reduce the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs.

Comparisons of Roland TR-808

Roland TR-808 vs Roland TR-909

The Roland TR-909 and TR-808 are two of the most influential drum machines in electronic music, but they have distinct sonic character. The TR-808 uses analog synthesis for all its instruments, with a deep kick drum and distinctive snare, while the TR-909 combines analog percussion with digital samples for cymbals and hi-hats. The 808 is particularly well-suited to hip-hop and electro, while the 909 excels in house and techno.

Roland TR-808 vs Roland TR-1000

The Roland TR-808 is a classic analog drum machine, renowned for its deep kick drum, handclaps, and direct sequencing. The Roland TR-1000 recaptures some of that character with 16 analog circuits inspired by the TR-808 and TR-909, but adds digital engines, stereo sampling, and advanced effects.

The TR-808 is ideal for those seeking the original instrument and its distinctive sound. The TR-1000 offers greater versatility thanks to resampling, FM synthesis, per-track effects, and modern connectivity. These are complementary options: the former stands out for its historical identity, and the latter for combining classic sounds and modern tools in a single unit.

Other listings related to Roland TR-808

Roland TR-808: Analog Drum Machine Features

The Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer is one of the most influential drum machines in electronic music history. Introduced in 1980, it uses analog synthesis to generate its unmistakable sounds, including a deep bass drum, snare, handclaps, cowbell and distinctive hi-hats. Its unique sonic character has helped shape genres such as hip-hop, electro, techno and house music.

The TR-808 features 16 step buttons for programming rhythmic patterns, individual instrument controls and a sequencer that allows precise beat creation. Separate instrument outputs make it possible to process individual sounds externally, while its synchronisation and trigger connections allow integration with other studio equipment.

Discontinued in the early 1980s, the TR-808 has become a highly sought-after instrument among music producers and collectors. Its combination of analog sounds, hands-on programming and unmistakable character continues to make it a reference for electronic beat production.

Buy a Second-Hand Roland TR-808 with Confidence

Buying a second-hand Roland TR-808 is an opportunity to bring one of the most iconic drum machines in music history into your studio. Its analog synthesis, deep bass drum and step-sequencing capabilities make it particularly appealing to producers working in electronic music, hip-hop and other genres that draw on the original 808 sound.

At Sounds Market, you can buy second-hand music equipment in two ways: choose products refurbished by Sounds Market, professionally inspected and supplied with a one-year warranty, or purchase products listed by private sellers through our marketplace, where you can buy safely. This gives you the flexibility to choose the option that best suits your needs and budget.

Whether you're searching for a vintage drum machine for your studio or expanding your collection of electronic instruments, explore the second-hand equipment available at Sounds Market and find your next piece of music gear.

You could also be interested