Roland - TR-1000 Rhythm Creator

Roland’s TR-1000 Rhythm Creator, an analogue and digital drum machine, draws on the iconic sounds of the TR-808 and TR-909, thanks to 16 analogue circuits recreated from the original designs. The digital engines expand this palette with ACB modelling, 50 FM instruments, virtual analogue synthesis and PCM samples. This hybrid architecture allows you to switch from historic timbres to more unexpected electronic textures.

With its stereo sampling, resampling and non-destructive slicing tools, the TR-1000 makes it easy to create custom soundscapes. Its 64 GB of internal memory holds 2,000 samples, with 46 GB available for your own files. Time-stretching and tempo synchronisation round off these capabilities.

Rhythm programming is enhanced by the advanced sequencer, which combines TR-REC input, real-time recording and detailed timing controls. Each track can play forwards, backwards or in other directions, with per-step probabilities and cycle conditions to vary the patterns. Independent swing, time shifts and parameter movement recording allow you to shape precise, fluid or deliberately irregular grooves.

For sound processing, the TR-1000 combines a state-variable analogue filter, an analogue saturation circuit and digital effects such as the crusher, flanger, pitch delay and isolator. Each track also features a compressor, a multimode filter, a 4-band equaliser and an amplitude envelope. Four tracks can stack two independent sound generators.

The TR-1000 App, compatible with a computer, provides access to real-time parameter editing and a library for organising your sounds. The USB-C connection also allows the unit to be used as a multi-channel audio/MIDI interface, for direct integration into a computer-based studio.

In designing this hybrid drum machine, Roland collaborated with producers and artists from a variety of genres. Kuniyuki Takahashi explores its rhythmic nuances, Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith works with custom samples and soundscapes, whilst Egyptian Lover highlights its electro roots. Their respective uses of the machine illustrate different approaches to creation, ranging from deep grooves to experimental textures and rhythms inspired by the West Coast scene.

New feature as of October 2026: The free update (Version 1.50) adds tuned note programming, a keyboard mode, new effects and improvements to audio routing. In particular, the NOTE parameter makes it easier to create basslines, lead melodies and tuned percussion.