airaBack in the 1980s and 1990s, Roland’s TR-808 drum machine managed to attain legendary status. Due to its unique sound, many were able to identify in songs whether or not the TR-808 had been used. The sound and effects of the TR-808 have since been incorporated into keyboards and software, but after more than 30 years, it looks like Roland has decided that a true successor was needed in order to better meet the needs and demands of musicians today, whom they claim are on the lookout for new and exciting things to experiment with. Given the state of music these days, we can agree with those sentiments. 

The device appears to be called the AIRA and while Roland has yet to officially reveal the device in its entirety, the company released a video in which they talk about the history of the TR-808 and gave us a sneak peek at the AIRA towards the end. However thanks to images which have since been making their way online (courtesy of De:Bug), the final version of the AIRA device have appeared and well, safe to say it looks absolutely nothing like the original TR-808. Featuring a brushed metallic cover, the AIRA sports a glowing green edge accompanied by buttons that glow green as well. However with NAMM 2014 taking place next week, chances are we will learn more about Roland’s AIRA then.

In the meantime for those who have a couple of minutes to spare, you can check out the video teasing the AIRA below. So musicians, are you guys excited to see if the successor to the TR-808 will be able to uphold its legendary status?

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