Great news for owners of Roland’s TR-8S and TR-6S! Free CR-78 and chromatic 808 bass for Roland TR-8S and TR-6Ss—an ACB emulation of the CR-78 and a new instrument crafted from pitched 808 booms. Even better, these updates won’t cost you a dime.
Introducing the CompuRhythm CR-78
The first of the two new instruments is the CR-78, an ACB (Analog Circuit Behavior) model of the iconic 1978 drum machine, the CR-78 CompuRhythm. This groundbreaking drum machine was the world’s first mass-produced programmable unit, featuring presets like Rock, Disco, and Bossa Nova. If you had the WS-1 programmer module, you could even craft your own beats. The CR-78 left its mark on music history, gracing records by artists like Blondie, Phil Collins, and Hall & Oates, and played a pivotal role in paving the way for the TR-808. It’s a charming and disco-tastic addition.
The firmware version of the CR-78 faithfully reproduces every sound from the original drum machine, including nearly all of its presets. Additionally, it offers new patterns and, as Roland states, “advanced sound design capabilities made possible with the modern ACB approach.” If you’re a fan of the CR-78 like myself, you’ll undoubtedly be excited to hear how it sounds in your Roland TR-8S.
Exploring the TR-808 Chromatic Bass
The TR-808 Chromatic Bass, empowers users to craft pitched basslines using the legendary 808 boom. Whether you have a Roland TR-8S or TR-6S, you can use this sound. This technique is a staple in genres like trap, drill, Miami bass, and many others.
Enhanced Editing with TR-EDITOR
As part of this update package, Roland has also revamped the free TR-EDITOR for macOS and Windows. The latest version includes a compact user interface option that optimizes screen space. Ideal when using the editor alongside other applications on smaller computer displays.
Ready to Upgrade?
If you already own a TR-8S or TR-6S, head over to the Roland website to download the new firmware and editor. If you haven’t acquired one yet, now might be the perfect time, especially if you’re delving into trap, drill, or even exploring the groovy sounds of 1970s disco.
Links of interest
TR-8S v3.0 update: https://www.roland.com/global/products/tr-8s/downloads/
TR-6S v2.0 update: https://www.roland.com/global/products/tr-6s/downloads/
TR-EDITOR for macOS and Windows: https://www.roland.com/us/products/rc_tr-editor/
