Roland has unveiled the TR-1000 Rhythm Creator, a groundbreaking drum machine that signals the brand's long-awaited return to authentic analog drum synthesis after over four decades. Launched on October 1, 2025, this innovative instrument blends the iconic tones of the TR-808 and TR-909 with state-of-the-art digital processing and advanced sampling features. Developed in close partnership with artists, the TR-1000 is engineered to redefine rhythmic innovation and inspire the next generation of beatmakers.
The TR series has been a cornerstone of electronic music since the early 1980s. The booming bass and distinctive snaps of the TR-808 and TR-909 started in underground scenes but soon became essential in hip-hop, techno, house, trap, and pop. These classic machines have inspired generations, and the TR-1000 carries that legacy forward while meeting modern production demands.
Central to the TR-1000 are 16 meticulously recreated analog circuits drawn directly from the original TR-808 and TR-909 schematics, rebuilt with contemporary components to ensure superior reliability and accuracy. These are augmented by sophisticated digital sound engines, featuring 21 "circuit-bent" reinterpretations of iconic TR voices through Roland's Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, FM-based percussion, virtual analog synthesis, and a vast PCM sample library for expansive sonic possibilities.
Sampling is seamlessly built into the workflow, offering stereo recording and resampling, BPM synchronization, time-stretching, and non-destructive slice editing. The unit comes pre-loaded with 2,000 hand-picked samples and features 64 GB of internal storage—leaving 46 GB free for user imports and personal recordings.
Sound shaping is extensive: each track includes model-specific generators, compressors, multimode filters/EQs, and envelope controls. Four tracks support layering two sounds or separate programming, with per-track effects, sidechaining, routing, and LFO modulation. Global tools include a new analog state-variable filter inspired by vintage Roland designs, dedicated analog drive, and a variety of digital effects.
The sequencer expands upon the timeless TR step-programming approach while introducing contemporary versatility, including off-grid timing for a more natural groove, real-time performance controls, expressive tools, and a distinctive Morph slider that enables sweeping, dramatic sound transformations. The user-friendly panel boasts high-traction knobs, smooth and responsive faders, and a snapshot function for immediate recall of any parameter settings.
For integration, the TR-1000 offers comprehensive I/O (MIDI, CV/Gate, triggers, DIN Sync, multiple audio outputs) and a companion app for computer-based editing and library management.
The TR-808 and TR-909 that started it all:
| Aspect | TR-808 (1980) | TR-1000 (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Generation | Fully analog subtractive synthesis (12 voices) | 16 analog circuits recreating 808/909 voices + digital (ACB, FM, VA, PCM, sampling) |
| 808 Voices Included | All original: BD, SD, LT/MT/HT, LC/MC/HC, RS/CP, CL/MA/CB, CY, OH/CH | BD, SD, LT/HT (tunable for MT), RS, CP, CH/OH, CY, CB (no congas/claves/maracas—use digital) |
| Parameter Extensions | Limited (e.g., no BD tuning) | Expanded: BD tuning, longer decays, velocity response, more headroom/dynamics |
| Sound Character | Lo-fi, characterful (age/variations affect sound) | Very close but often crisper/punchier; some say originals have subtle edge |
| Sequencer | 32 patterns, 768 measures, basic step programming | Advanced TR-REC with off-grid timing, real-time controls, Morph slider, snapshots |
| Sampling/Extras | None | Full stereo sampler (64GB, 2,000 presets), time-stretch, slicing, effects |
| Effects/Processing | Individual levels/accents | Per-track compressor/filter/EQ, analog drive/filter, master FX, sidechain |
| I/O & Integration | DIN Sync, triggers, individual outs | MIDI, USB audio/MIDI, CV/Gate, 10 outs, app control |
| Price (launch) | ~$1,195 (1980) → ~$4,500 adjusted for inflation | $2,699 USD |