The 808 was eventually used on more hit records than any other drum machine. It became a cornerstone of the emerging electronic, dance, and hip hop genres, popularized by early hits such as ' Planet Rock' by Afrika Bambaataa and the Soulsonic Force and ' Sexual Healing' by Marvin Gaye. Over the course of the 1980s, the 808 attracted a cult following among underground musicians for its affordability on the used market, ease of use and idiosyncratic sounds, particularly its deep, booming bass drum. After building approximately 12,000 units, Roland discontinued the 808 after its semiconductors became impossible to restock.

Launched when electronic music had yet to become mainstream, the 808 received mixed reviews for its unrealistic drum sounds and was a commercial failure. Unlike its nearest competitor at the time, the more expensive Linn LM-1, the 808 generates sounds using analog synthesis rather than by playing samples (prerecorded sounds). It was one of the first drum machines to allow users to program rhythms instead of using preset patterns. The Roland TR-808 Rhythm Composer, commonly known as the 808, is a drum machine manufactured by Roland Corporation between 19. Individual level, tuning, attack, decay, and tone controls for some sounds

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