Roland have announced the release of system updates for their TR-8S and TR-6S Rhythm Performer instruments, along with a new version of the TR-EDITOR companion app.
TR-8S & TR-6S
With the introduction of TR-8S Version 3.0 and TR-6S Version 2.0, the units now feature an authentic ACB (Analog Circuit Behaviour) model of the the company’s CR-78 CompuRhythm instrument, and a new TR-808 Chromatic Bass instrument. Roland say that the addition of the new models means that the Rhythm Performers now offer the most complete collection of their classic rhythm machines available in hardware form, having already been equipped with recreations of classics such as the TR-808, TR-909, TR-707, TR-727 and TR-606.
The new CR-78 model offers every sound from the original hardware, along with nearly all of the presets, and also boasts new patterns and advanced sound design capabilities thanks to the use of the ACB technology. The Chromatic Bass feature then draws inspiration from the producers who began to play samples of the original TR-808 bass drum chromatically in order to create a hybrid kick/bass sound. With the release of the update, users can now create tuned basslines using the TR-808 bass drum sound found in the TR-8S and TR-6S.
TR-EDITOR
Additionally, Roland have also updated the TR-EDITOR, a macOS and Windows application which offers an expanded set of visual controls and organisational tools that enhance the Rhythm Performer instruments’ workflow. The latest version now provides a compact UI option that aims to free up screen space and allow the software to be used alongside other applications on smaller computer displays.
Availability
The TR-8S, TR-6S and TR-EDITOR updates are available now as free downloads to existing users. More details can be found on the Roland website.
