Roland has added three new instruments to its TR drum machine family – the TR-6S Rhythm Performer, TR-06 Drumatix and TR-606 Software Rhythm Composer.
Based on the flagship TR-8S, the TR-6S Rhythm Performer is the latest addition to the Roland Boutique series, blending the sounds and workflow of the 1980s-era TR-606 hardware with modern enhancements. Also based on the TR-606, the TR-606 Software Rhythm Composer expands Roland Cloud’s Legendary series with another renowned TR instrument.
The TR-6S delivers the same sound of its bigger sibling, and features a six-track sequencer in a battery-powered box. Authentic recreations of Roland drum machines like the 808, 909, 707, 606, and more are included, and users can mix and match them with preset and custom samples and futuristic FM tones to create exotic hybrid kits.
The sound of modern music owes a lot to the classic step sequencer – and the ‘TR-REC’ variety found in early Roland drum machines in particular. The TR-6S employs the same approach, elevated with real-time recording and modern enhancements. As well as an array of expressive effects, he TR-6S has a USB audio/Midi interface for mobile or minimal production set-ups.
The TR-06 is a reproduction of the Roland TR-606 Drumatix from the 1980s with some modern upgrades. This new Roland Boutique version borrows the tone and look of the original while reimagining it with new sound-crafting potential. Users can control tuning, decay, and pan for each instrument, or crank up the internal gain for each circuit model and push it into warm overdrive or aggressive distortion. An onboard compressor adds fullness and punch, while the tempo delay creates depth and space.
Like the original, the TR-06 has a familiar and straightforward step sequencer, but this has been updated with features like sub-steps for ratcheted parts, and step-loop for instant pattern slicing. With five trigger outputs and a trigger input, the TR-06 integrates nicely with modular setups. It’s a high-quality USB audio interface too, and features battery operation and a built-in speaker for production on the go.
With the TR-606 Software Rhythm Composer, the underground 1980s classic is now available as a plug-in for DAW music production. The software version has the same sound and behavior of the original, plus powerful new features that virtually modify the circuitry for more sound choices and faster, more fluid programming.
Like the TR-06 hardware, the TR-606 plug-in offers tuning, decay, and pan on each instrument, and the ability to overdrive the internal circuitry. The step sequencer has been expanded with lanes for each sound, and each pattern has eight variations plus adjustable flams, sub-steps, and soft hits.
Users can pair the TR-8S or TR-06 with the TR-606 for the benefits of hardware and software integration. Patterns can be shared between the TR-8S and TR-606, and the TR-06’s knobs are pre-mapped to the plug-in for intuitive, hands-on workflow.
The TR-606 Software Rhythm Composer, along with all instruments in the Legendary series, is included with the Ultimate membership level of Roland Cloud. In addition, any Roland Account holder can purchase Lifetime Keys for individual Legendary series titles.
The TR-6S will be available for US$399.99 in November 2020 and the TR-06 will be available for US$399.99 in late October 2020. The TR-606 Software Rhythm Composer is available now via Roland Cloud.
More: www.roland.com
