Here is some info I got from hyperreal.com on the TB-303.
ROLAND TB303 BassLine
DESCRIPTION: Programmable Bass machine.
INTERNAL
SOUND SORCE: 1 Oscillator analog synth with primitive VCA.
The VCF intensity can be varied by the EG, the
Q can be set up to self-oscillation.
INPUTS: Sync, 9V DC, Mix (for external sound source)
OUTPUTS: CV (1V/oct), Trig, Head+Line.
SYNC: Din Sync.
2ND DATA STORE: None.
MEMORY SIZE: 64 patterns. Each pattern can be max 16/16ths long.
7 tracks.
SIZE: Small and compact. Fits neatly on the button-less
side of my masterkeyboard. (Ensoniq Mirage)
SEQUENCER TYPE: Pattern based.
PROGRAMMING: Step + 'Real'. It's *tricky* to learn how to use it.
First, you enter the notes it should play in sequence
using the small 'keyboard' on top of it. Then, you
enter 'TIME MODE' and start punching in the note
values+rests for each note! The only available time step
is a 1/16 note. So to enter a 1/8 middle C which should
last for 1/4, here is the procedure:
a) Go PITCH MODE. Press middle C on keyboard.
b) Go TIME MODE. Press 1/16 ON, 1/16 ON, 1/16 OFF, 1/16 OFF !
Oh, and there is the 'Tap' mode as well; When in TIME
MODE, by pressing some buttons, you can start the
empty (?) pattern *after* programming all tone values
first! A metronome sounds, and you can now determine
the length+sustain of each programmed note by depressing
the TAP button at appropriate times! (sigh)
BUGS: Will replace your immaculate newly created bass pattern
with random data if you switch from PATTERN WRITE MODE
to PATTERN PLAY MODE while running it....
If you don't enter enough timing info (or too much)
random data is heard. This is even stated in the manual...
IMPRESSITUDE: Low. A small, metal box with a painted-on keyboard
doesn't impress too many I'm afraid...
NO: I can't possibly see how this was actually marketed
for serious use? To use this gadget, you'll need the
patience of a 14-year old whiz kid. Don't buy it
unless you're willing to spend some couple of days
reading the manual. This is the first machine that
got me so baffled, I *had* to read the f***:(**g manual!
YES: It's fun to use once you get used to the 'interface'.
And the on-board synth may be thin, but can that
filter sing :) Good for those 1/16 bass lines we
hear too little of these days.
HINTS: Remove back-up batteries. Wait an hour. Turn it on.
Presto: 64 random bass patterns :)
(review by Mikael Lundgren)
() Mikael (Vick) Lundgren | University of Uppsala, Sweden O ____ (
)
() vick@bern.docs.uu. {-|>*CSD - Computer Science Dept. o /.. \/| (
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() Studying CS @ ---------|>*DOCS - Dept. of Computer Systems (----) | )) (
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() Remember: Four bananas always add up to a plectrum. \____/\| (
)
JV