The Roland TR-909 drum machine, like other pieces of now iconic Roland gear, was not embraced by the masses when it came out. It received mixed reviews, and like the TB-303 before it, Roland scrapped ...

The TR-808 drum machine help crafted many classics records, to celebrate the device’s 40th anniversary, Roland decided to bless beat junkies with some freebies. There is also a very insightful ...

In the 80s, Roland drum machines were at the epicenter of hip hop, house, techno, acid house and other music genres. The 808, 909, 707, and 606 helped create the beats of some of your favorite songs.

After a brief teaser campaign, Roland has revealed a new addition to the company's iconic digital drum machine portfolio – the Aira TR-8S Rhythm Performer. As well as emulating classic 80s drum ...

Roland has announced the release of the TR-909 Rhythm Composer, an update of the classic 909 drum machine, and a new TB-03 Bass Line synthesizer, a relaunch of the similarly classic 303. The ...

In 2018 Roland introduced the TR-8S drum machine and instantly won the heart of my colleague Roberto Baldwin. Then, last year it resurrected its MC line of grooveboxes, and launched the portable, ...

In a discussion about the greatest Roland TR drum machine, it’s unlikely that either the TR-707 or TR-727 would feature heavily, but they’re certainly not without merit. Released in 1985, these were ...

Electronic music instrument maker Roland has branded today, September 9, as #909day. To celebrate, the company behind pioneering synths and drum machines such as the TR-808 and, most appropriately, ...

The Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer is credited with more musical innovations than you can wave a plug socket at – even after its rocky start. After flopping commercially upon release in 1980, because ...

Posts from this author will be added to your daily email digest and your homepage feed. is The Verge’s executive editor. He has covered tech, policy, and online creators for over a decade. The sound ...

Best of 2023: If they hadn't panned the 909, you might now be dancing to a very different beat… When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.