A pair of hands adjusting parameters on a Roland TR-08 drum machine. Few instruments have left a bigger impact on music than the Roland TR-808. Known for its signature boom, snap, and sizzle, the 808 helped define the sound of entire genres, from hip-hop, trap, and pop to house, techno, and electro. What started as a commercial flop has since become one of the most iconic drum machines of all time, inspiring generations of producers, beatmakers, and engineers. With only about 12,000 units ever produced, original Roland TR-808s are often hard to find and cost upwards of $5,000. So in honor of August 8th, better known to music-lovers as 808 Day, we’re rounding up the best 808-style drum machines on the market today. But first, let’s take a quick look at the history of the legendary TR-808 drum machine. Continue reading →