It is almost impossible to have a modern musical landscape without the 808 drum machine’s unique sounds. Although it was released in the eighties, 808 drums quickly became obligatory within the growing genre of dance music, hip-hop, and adding texture to R&B. Currently, the sound of 808 is everywhere. Nowadays, producers no longer use the actual drum pad; they use the samples such as booming bass drops, ninny hi-hats, artificial claps, and digital snares.
Unique Features and Sound
808 is the first drum machine that the users programmed percussion tracks from the beginning to the end and complete with rolls and breaks. Besides, it has a volume knob for each voice, several audio outputs, and a DIN sync port that synchronizes with other devices. Furthermore, it is known for its powerful bass drum sound built from a sine oscillator, voltage-controlled amplifier, and low-pass filter. Also, the bass drum decay control permits you to lengthen the sound, creating distinctively low frequencies that flatten somewhat over time.
Adaptability
The 808 makes various sounds, whereby each of these sounds can be adjusted in several ways. Initially, producers had focused on 808 as a source of percussion. However, by modifying the drum sound to full decay, it has been discovered that it could create bass lines. Moreover, each sound is so unique, coming into and out of vogue. For instance, you could have rimshot as your favorite sound; later, it could be toms and cowbell. When you perceive you have had enough of toms, then a record comes out with it and blows your mind.
Relentlessly Repetitiveness
Just as a machine can produce an innumerable number of strange sounds, similarly, it can play the same thing repeatedly. When it comes to drumming, getting a drummer who can play the same thing for 10-15minutes can be daunting. Furthermore, drummers can get bored and want to showcase another sound as proof that they can do more. On the other hand, once the drum machine is turned on, it plays it forever. Hence, it has helped hip-hop perfect the art of the loop. Moreover, it has made it easier for house producers and techno to program unwavering tracks that last longer than an average song.
Conclusion
In the current era, 808 has become an indispensable tool for music producers. Besides, you do not have to possess any special musical training to program it, as long as you are willing to take a risk and come up with the hardest, strangest beat around. Additionally, 808 are important, and you can effortlessly drag and drop your sample into your track and call it a day. However, you must have an understanding of the proper techniques of using the drum machine to avoid flopping your song.
