StarskyCarr Takes on the TR-808 Legend

In the world of drum machines, the Roland TR-808 stands as a kind of mythical beast, casting a shadow over everything that’s come after. Its signature thump has been the backbone of countless tracks, from golden-era hip hop to modern electronic anthems. StarskyCarr dives into this legend, showcasing the iconic TR-808 alongside the TR-8S and Behringer RD-8. Right from the start, he acknowledges that no two 808s are ever the same, a point underscored by the different sounds each unit produces due to component aging over decades. This video aims to explore whether these modern replicas can live up to the venerable icon’s mystique.

When it comes to electronic percussion, every nuance matters. StarskyCarr delves into the hi-hats and cowbells of these machines like a dog with a bone, highlighting their subtle yet significant differences. The RD-8 offers tone control, but you can’t tune them, while the TR-8S approximates a filter instead of true tuning. Starsky notes how, despite these limitations, the hi-hats produce sounds that may remind someone of an original 808 they once heard. He also grapples with the finicky tuning parameters of the cowbell, revealing the frustration of not being able to hit those exact sweet spots. His meticulous exploration exemplifies his dedication to sound design, albeit with a flair typical of his engaging, unpretentious style.

StarskyCarr moves on to claps and rimshots, elements that add soul and depth to any beat. He notes differences in decay and pitch, with each machine offering its own take on these classic percussive sounds. The TR-8S and RD-8 both provide adjustable decay, a feature that adds another layer of customisation. Throughout, Starsky highlights the varying pitches and harmonics that make each machine unique, likening the experience to trying to tame a particularly unruly pub band. His candid delivery makes this segment both informative and entertaining, staying true to his authentic approach.

StarskyCarr isn’t one to overlook timing and technical precision. With precision that would make a Swiss watchmaker proud, he delves into the timing idiosyncrasies of these machines. Using MIDI conversions and frequency analysis, he uncovers slight variances that only the most discerning ear might notice. He acknowledges the mythic ‘swing’ of the TR-808 as part of its unique charm, encouraging slight MIDI nudges for those looking to replicate its swagger. Despite the deep dive into nerdy territory, Starsky keeps the tone light, proving that tech talk doesn’t have to be tedious, especially when tied to such iconic gear.