loopop Breaks Down the Roland TR-1000: A Proper Geezer of a Drum Machine

In the video, Loopop introduces us to the Roland TR-1000, highlighting it as Roland’s new flagship drum machine. This isn’t just any release; it’s a notable pivot for Roland, embracing physical analog circuits derived from the legendary 808 and 909 models. However, this isn’t a mere reissue; it’s a machine with a modern twist, offering a bevy of digital drum synth models that Roland’s become known for. With modern sampling, slicing, and sequencing, the TR-1000 is not just another drum machine – it’s a comprehensive tool for sound creation. Loopop sets the stage to explore its capabilities, from its analog sounds to its digital prowess, all while planning to lay out its strengths and weaknesses compared to its drumming counterparts. And for the icing on the cake – he teases a playthrough of its factory patterns at the conclusion.

Loopop dives into a granular overview of the TR-1000, shedding light on its 14-voice architecture. Each of its 10 main tracks can trigger dual layers, broadening the possibilities of sound complexity by mingling distinct voices. Each layer can have its unique generator, filter, and amp, but the shared parameters like effects and controls further add to its intricate design. There’s a cornucopia of engines – analog, ACB emulations, FM, virtual analog, PCM, and samples. The analog heart is hardwired based on the revered 808 and 909 circuits, yet Roland’s decision means only one per kit in the analog domain. Loopop deftly guides through this hall of sonic choices, from ACB models that offer digital counterparts with a wider parameter range to bundled sounds and even custom sampling options like time-stretching. It’s audibly clear that Roland’s thrown the kitchen sink at this one, making it a formidable presence in any setup.

Loopop spends ample time demonstrating the TR-1000’s myriad of controls, which includes assignable knobs and a distinct focus on dual-layer tracks – a playground for tone tinkerers. Encoders control tune, decay, and mix, with custom assignments for those daring enough to dive deeper. Changing focus to connectivity, the TR-1000 extends an open embrace with a range of I/O options from headphone outputs to individual mono outputs, perfect for external processing. Though the sheer mass is notable, Loopop reassures its hefty build is all metal, save for slightly wobbly faders. Regarding the software side, Roland offers an app for parameter visualisation and sample editing. It’s a comprehensive effort to ensure this drum machine is as pliant in the studio as it is on stage. Loopop’s thesis is simple: this machine, once set up, is primed for relentless gigging and mangling.

Loopop approaches the conclusion with a balanced critique. He notes the TR-1000’s prohibitive size and price, but doesn’t shy away from celebrating its unmatched feature set geared towards performance and creativity. The unit is packed full of flexibility, from time-stretching samples to multilayer sound crafting. However, he acknowledges that mastering the multitude of parameters can take time, but once configured, the beast is raring to go. Loopop appreciates the pleasantly surprising mix of analog grit and digital elegance, claiming it’s a worthy contender in the drum machine arena. Yet, he also yearns for future firmware updates to add even more functionality, hinting that this drum machine has a future as dynamic as its capabilities. It’s an impassioned nod to Roland’s bold move – a call for them not to rest on their laurels but continue to push the envelope.