TR-8S 3.0 and TR-6S 2.0 add an ACB model of the CR-78 CompuRhythm and a chromatic TR-808 mode for building basslines. The ability to play an 808 kick chromatically greatly expands the flexibility of the two drum machines. While you could tune drum hits and samples on the to create some melodic elements it wasn't exactly an easy or pleasant experience. This opens up the 8S and 6S well beyond strictly percussion, but does so in a way that seems natural. The 808 emulation was already part of their feature sets. And, especially in the world of hip hop, it's a staple for creating basslines, not just drum grooves.

The CR-78 emulation is another huge addition. It was the world's first programable drum machine and my personal favorite of Roland’s classic rhythm boxes. In fact, I called out the lack of a CR-78 model in my review of the TR-6S as its one glaring omission. (I'd like to believe I had something to do with the decision, but I know better.) All of the sounds from the hardware are represented, as are most of the original preset rhythms, plus a few new ones. But what's particular exciting is the ability to use the more modern programming features and sound design tools available on the TR-6S and TR-8S to tweak the CR-78 for more modern productions.

In addition to the two new sound engines, the TR-Editor app on Mac and PC is getting an update with some usability tweaks and new compact UI for easier use on small displays. All these updates are available now for free directly from Roland.com.

The post Roland adds CR-78 percussion and 808 bass to the TR-8S and TR-6S drum machines appeared first on Best News.

This looks a lot like Arturia’s amazing Analog Lab software, as Galaxias provides access to sounds across Roland’s entire history. There are presets sourced from nearly every Roland instrument you can think of, from the iconic Jupiter 8 synthesizer to the, uh, even more iconic TR 808 drum machine. These sounds aren’t just from retro darlings, as there are plenty of options culled from recent releases like System 8 and Zenology, among others.

As a matter of fact, the company says Galaxias provides access to any instrument available via Roland Cloud. You can also layer up to four instruments together, along with two effects per layer, to create custom soundscapes that Roland calls Scenes. Additionally, there are some beefed up adjustment parameters here, with macro controls that let you change up 128 parameters via internal LFOs or an external MIDI controller.

Just like Analog Lab, everything’s designed around a proprietary interface that allows for custom organization options, so you won’t lose your favorite preset in a mad dash to find the beefiest bassline. Roland also says that more sounds and capabilities will be added regularly.

Galaxias is available now and is included with a Roland Cloud Ultimate membership, which costs $200 per year or $20 each month. There’s a 30-day free trial for those curious about what all the fuss is about.

The post Roland’s new software instrument Galaxias offers access to 20,000 sounds appeared first on Best News.