TR8S

TR-8S Rhythm Performer is a drum machine and sampler produced by Roland. Introduced in 2018 as an expanded evolution of the TR-8, it blends classic Roland TR drum voices with a flexible sampling engine. The device can reproduce the familiar sounds of the TR-808, TR-909, and related machines while also playing user-imported samples loaded from an SD card. This hybrid approach allows users to construct kits that mix traditional drum tones with individualized samples.

The TR-8S features a 16-pad performance surface and offers a step-based sequencer along with live-recording capabilities. Users can program patterns beat-by-beat or perform with the pads in real time, applying per-pad parameter changes and motion sequences to create dynamic performances. Kits and patterns can be organized into songs or pattern chains, and there are options for live playback and editing during performance.

Built-in effects and routing provide processing for each instrument and the overall mix. The TR-8S includes effects such as reverb and delay, plus a master effects chain, with flexible output routing suitable for studio or live setups.

Connectivity includes USB for audio and MIDI, as well as traditional MIDI I/O and multiple audio outputs, enabling integration with other gear and software. It also supports loading and saving projects to internal memory or the SD card.

The TR-8S has been widely adopted by electronic music producers and performers for studio production and live sets. It is regarded as a modern, more flexible successor to classic TR drum machines, combining historical sounds with contemporary sampling and performance features.