Roland TR-6S: Six Roland Classics in One Groovebox
· re:union Radio editorial · 3 min read
The Roland TR-6S combines sound models of the TR-808, TR-909, and other Roland drum machines in a compact, battery-powered groovebox for on-the-go.
The Roland TR-6S packs sound models of six Roland classics into a device that fits in your jacket pocket. Instead of a single drum machine sound, it brings together the circuit models of the TR-808, TR-909, TR-606, TR-707, TR-727, and CR-78 across six tracks – designed for musicians who want to produce on the go or in small spaces, and who need something that fits into cramped studio environments or live rigs.
At a glance
- Sound models of TR-808, TR-909, TR-606, TR-707, TR-727, and CR-78 plus FM synthesis
- 6 tracks, 16-step sequencer with 8 variations per pattern
- Import your own samples via SD card (WAV/AIFF), up to 180 seconds per file
- Powered by 4 AA batteries or USB, approximately 4.5 to 5.5 hours runtime
Six Tracks, a Whole Instrument Archive
Each of the TR-6S's six tracks can be assigned an individual instrument: 11 bass drum, 8 snare, 19 tom, 8 hi-hat, and 8 cymbal sounds are available, plus 24 percussion and 72 FM sounds, as well as rim shots and hand claps. Roland states the number of factory presets at over 300 tones. If you need your own sounds, you can import WAV or AIFF files via SD card – individual samples can be up to 180 seconds long, with a total of approximately 600 seconds of storage available.
Sequencer with Scatter and Motion Recording
The sequencer works with 16 steps per variation and eight variations (A to H) per pattern, complemented by sub-steps, flams, step loop, motion recording, and probability functions for steps and sub-steps. The Scatter function distorts running patterns live at the touch of a button – a tool for breaks and transitions without stopping the sequencer. Up to 128 user patterns and 128 user drum kits can be stored.
Effects and Connections
Each instrument has high-pass and low-pass filters, compressor, drive, crusher, and ring modulator. On the master track, you'll find reverb, delay, phaser, distortion, a vinyl simulation, and sidechain compression. For connecting to other devices, there's MIDI In/Out and a USB-B port for audio and MIDI simultaneously, plus a headphone output and 6.3mm jack outputs (L/Mono, R). Your own sounds and backups can be transferred to the device via an SD card.
| Tracks | 6, each with its own instrument |
|---|---|
| Sound Models | TR-808, TR-909, TR-606, TR-707, TR-727, CR-78, FM Synthesis |
| Sample Import | WAV/AIFF via SD card, max. 180 s per file |
| Connections | MIDI In/Out, USB-B, headphones, 6.3mm jack (L/Mono, R) |
| Power Supply | 4× AA battery or USB, 4.5–5.5 hrs runtime |
| Dimensions / Weight | 224 × 132 × 60.1 mm / 705 g with batteries |
According to Roland, the TR-6S "finds its place even in cramped studio environments or live rigs."
If you work live with CDJs or a DJ mixer, you can use the TR-6S as an additional instrument for live percussion layers over existing sets. If you want to refine the basics of harmonic mixing, you'll find a dedicated guide to the Camelot Wheel on reunion-radio.com.
FAQ
Can the TR-6S play its own samples?
Yes. WAV or AIFF files can be imported via an SD card; individual samples can be up to 180 seconds long, with a total of approximately 600 seconds of storage available, according to Roland.
Does the TR-6S run without a power outlet?
Yes, it can be powered by four AA batteries. Roland states a runtime of approximately 4.5 hours with alkaline batteries and about 5.5 hours with Ni-MH rechargeable batteries; alternatively, the device can be powered via USB.
Source: Roland, TR-6S product page.
