TB303

The Roland TB-303 Bass Line is a bass-synthesizer manufactured by Roland Corporation. Introduced in 1981, it was intended to simulate a bass guitarist for practice purposes. The TB-303 was not a commercial success in its original run and was discontinued in 1984. However, it found a new life in the burgeoning acid house scene of the late 1980s.

The unique sound of the TB-303, characterized by its squelchy and resonant filters, became a staple of early electronic dance music. Its distinctive "acid" sound is often attributed to the way the filter cutoff and resonance parameters are manipulated. This sonic signature, coupled with its affordability and relative ease of use, made it a popular choice for producers experimenting with new electronic music styles.

The TB-303 features a simple interface with controls for accent, glide, cutoff, resonance, envelope modulation, decay, and tempo. It has a built-in sequencer that allows users to program basslines. While its initial sales were poor, the TB-303 has since become an iconic instrument. Its influence can be heard in countless electronic music genres beyond acid house, including techno, trance, and electro. Many modern synthesizers and software emulations attempt to replicate the distinctive sound of the original TB-303.