The influence of the TR-909 drum machine is still heard—and felt—nearly four decades after it was launched. Now, the 909 is available as a software plug-in, delivering the speaker-pummeling power of the original with new features that extend its sonic capabilities and make programming faster and more fluid.
In 1983, Roland followed the groundbreaking TR-808 with the more advanced TR-909. Around this time, machines with digital samples of acoustic drums were first starting to appear. But they were expensive and typically offered limited (if any) ability to adjust the sounds. For more expression and control, Roland engineers adopted a hybrid approach with the TR-909, combining tweakable analog circuitry for the kick, snare, clap, and toms with digital samples for the cymbals. Its unique voice and inspiring TR-REC sequencer eventually catapulted it to iconic status, with original units demanding huge sums on the used market.
While developing the TR-909 plug-in, we took the opportunity to improve on the original hardware while keeping the authentic experience intact. Our software version takes the sonic powers of the TR-909 to new levels with an advanced multi-lane sequencer, adjustable panning, and individual instrument gain controls that allow you to overdrive the circuits for in-your-face punch. Opening the sophisticated Edit view gives you independent step sequencer lanes per drum instrument, each with its own mute, solo, shuffle, and last-step settings. There are also per-step articulations, including weak hits, nine types of flams, and three types of sub steps for super-intricate patterns
All our legendary drum machines are available as part of Ultimate membership. Roland Cloud is also home to software versions of other vintage Roland instruments plus ZENOLOGY, ZENOLOGY FX, Zenbeats, and other inspiring music tools to back your creative journeys. Try everything we offer for free today with a Roland Cloud 30-day trial membership.