The Roland TR-909 drum machine, released in 1984, is an iconic piece of music production hardware. It is particularly renowned in genres such as house, techno, and hip hop. For producers and enthusiasts seeking the distinctive sound of the TR-909 without the cost of acquiring the original hardware, several free sample packs are available. These packs are typically distributed by music production websites, sample libraries, and independent creators. The following article outlines the available free TR-909 sample packs, their contents, and the methods for accessing them, based solely on the information provided in the source documents.
Available Free Sample Packs
Multiple sources detail free sample packs based on the Roland TR-909. These packs vary in their origin, sample count, and additional features. The information presented below is derived exclusively from the provided source materials.
BeoTic PWM Modded TR-909 Sample Pack
A collaboration between BeoTic and Maarten, a modifier of the Roland TR-909, has resulted in a free sample pack. This pack contains more than 200 samples that showcase the possibilities of the modified unit. The modifications were designed to soften the sharp, harsh sounds of the original 909, creating gentler drum tones. The modifications include: - Bass Drum (BD): Modifications were taken from Colin Fraser’s site (http://www.colinfraser.com/tr909/909mods/909mods.html). The original "Tune" parameter, which controlled the decay time of the pitch envelope, was modified to be an actual Tune control. Additional knobs for decay time and depth were added in a separate mod section. A drive modification that clips the sine-like waveform into a square wave was also included. - Snare Drum (SD): Controls for tune, decay, and depth were added. A switch named "Burst" turns off the initial short noise burst, which is separate from the snappy control. A "Damp" knob acts as a filter for the snare’s noise. - Toms: Controls for tune, decay, and depth were added in the mod section. - Cymbals: Additional modifications from the Nava 909 clone were included, specifically an envelope with attack and decay times for the Ride and Crash VCA’s. - Noise Source: An added analog noise source taken directly from the TR-808 is selectable for the Snare Drum and Hand Clap. The range of many original parameters was also extended.
The sample pack is provided in several formats: - Sample Pack Options: All samples are available in 48 kHz or 96 kHz, organised in sub-folders for each sound type. Toms are further organised by style. - Kontakt Multi: A multi is available for Kontakt, with all 96 kHz samples assigned to separate MIDI channels (1: Bass drums, 2: Snare drums, 3: High hats, 4: Crash Cymbals, 5: Ride Cymbals, 6: Toms, 7: Claps/Rimshots). A full version of Kontakt 5.8 or higher is required. - DAW Options: Instrument files for various software samplers are provided as easy preview options. These include all samples but are not organised in sub-folders, with only a few samples assigned to keys or pads.
Echo Sound Works TR-909 Samples
To celebrate "909 Day" (September 9th), Echo Sound Works provided an unreleased collection of TR-909 samples. This pack contains samples from an original TR-909 unit, carefully sampled, as well as new hybrid 909 samples. The hybrid samples include TR-909-inspired claps, snares, and kicks that blend 80s and contemporary characteristics, providing a unique edge. These sounds are described as suitable for layering with more modern drum samples, such as Trap or Future Bass snares, to create a retro-modern sound.
J5music Roland TR-909 Kit
J5music offers a free and updated Roland TR-909 Kit. This sample pack contains a total of 48 individual WAV samples, capturing the iconic sound of the classic Roland TR-909. It was updated in January 2024, adding another 16 x 32-Bit 48kHz one-shot samples. These samples were carefully mixed using processes from analog hardware and supplementary EQ. The pack is described as perfect for adding a vintage touch to tracks, particularly for producers of techno and house.
The pack includes compatibility with Native Instruments NKI and has been added to Ableton Live as a drum rack. The Ableton Live version includes controls for an EQ section (Low, Mid, High), Pitch Wobble, Reverb, Compressor, and Limiter.
Drumkito Roland TR-909 Sample Pack
Drumkito provides a Roland TR-909 sample pack that is described as "totally free to download." This pack includes a wide variety of sounds, such as: - A lot of Basedrums - A lot of Snares - A lot of Hi Hats - Tons of cymbals and percussions
The sounds listed in this pack include kick, snare, hand clap, open and closed hi-hats, low, mid, and hi toms, rim shot, ride and crash cymbals. The source notes that the TR-909 was not particularly popular when released and was considered too synthetic, but it is now a popular drum machine in genres like house, techno, and hip hop.
Looperman Free TR-909 Loops and Sounds
The Looperman website hosts a collection of free TR-909 loops and sounds uploaded by other users. These loops are available for commercial and non-commercial use on a royalty-free basis, subject to the site's terms and conditions. The loops are typically created using hardware like the RD-9 or software like the Koala Sampler. For example, one user describes uploading 909 loops from an RD-9, combining it with Koala Sampler for interesting sound recording experiments. Another user provides house kickers made with an RD-9, using individual outputs for toms with subtle extra effects. The loops can be found by searching for "tr 909" in the title or description.
Access Methods and Eligibility
Based on the provided sources, the primary method for accessing these free TR-909 sample packs is through direct download from the websites of the respective providers. The sources do not mention any sign-up requirements, subscription fees, or eligibility criteria such as geographic restrictions or purchase requirements. The sample packs are presented as freely available resources for music producers and enthusiasts.
For the BeoTic PWM Modded TR-909 sample pack, the download is offered as "a token of appreciation for the open exchange of ideas and knowledge." No registration or payment is indicated.
The Echo Sound Works collection is offered freely to celebrate "909 Day."
The J5music Roland TR-909 Kit and the Drumkito Roland TR-909 Sample Pack are both described as free downloads available from their respective websites.
On Looperman, the loops are uploaded by users and are available for download subject to the site's terms and conditions, which are not detailed in the source material.
Conclusion
Several free sample packs based on the Roland TR-909 drum machine are available from various music production websites. These packs range from samples of the original unit to modified versions and hybrid sounds. The packs are offered without indicated cost, registration requirements, or eligibility restrictions, making them accessible to a wide range of music producers. The primary method of access is through direct download from the provider's website. The content and features of each pack vary, offering different options for incorporating the classic TR-909 sound into modern productions.