How does the TR-6S differ from the TR-8S?

The TR-6S has six tracks instead of eleven, a smaller control surface and a two-line LCD, but uses the same sound engine, models and sequencer features. It is the portable, pared-down version.

Can I load my own samples?

Yes. It has a preset sample library and supports user samples loaded from an SD card, and you can combine samples with modeled sounds in hybrid kits.

How long does it run on batteries?

Roland rates about 4.5 hours on alkaline AA batteries and about 5.5 hours on Ni-MH rechargeables. It can also run from USB bus power.

Does it have an FM synth engine?

Yes. An FM engine is included for metallic and futuristic tones alongside the classic drum models.

What sequencing features does it have?

It offers sub-steps, flam, step-loop and motion recording, so you can add rolls, ratchets and parameter changes per step.

What comes in the box?

The unit itself; buyers report no printed manual is included, so plan to use Roland's online documentation.

Where is the Roland TR-6S cheapest?

At eBay, for $424.99, as of our latest check.

What do buyers say about the Roland TR-6S?

Rated 5 out of 5 from 4 ratings. Buyers like: Sounds great and hardly takes up desk space; As tweakable as you want it to be; Easy to create drum patterns; compact. Common complaints: Menu diving; Noise issue when recording audio out while powering via USB.

Where can I buy the Roland TR-6S?

3 stores we checked sell it, including Guitar Center, Musician's Friend, eBay.

Roland TR-6S

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What reviewers say

Buyers consistently praise the sound, portability and sequencing depth, calling it fun and inspiring for both production and live use. Complaints center on menu navigation, USB power noise during recording and the missing manual.

What people mention

SoundPraisedOwners say the modeled classic drum machines sound great and hold up in productions.
SizePraisedReviewers highlight how little desk space it takes and how easy it is to carry.
SequencingPraisedUsers find patterns quick to build and the sub-steps and motion recording inspiring.
Menu divingCriticisedDeeper parameters require paging through menus on the small LCD.
USB power noiseCriticisedSome buyers report noise on the audio output when recording while powered over USB.
DocumentationCriticisedBuyers note the unit ships without a printed manual.

About the Roland TR-6S

The Roland TR-6S is a six-track rhythm performer. It is a compact version of the TR-8S. It includes detailed circuit models of the Roland TR-808, TR-909, TR-606, TR-707 and more.

It has a large library of preset samples and supports custom user samples. An FM sound engine adds futuristic tones, and sounds can be mixed and matched to build hybrid kits.

The sequencer offers sub-steps, flam, step-loop and motion recording. The unit runs on four AA batteries or on USB bus power.

Tracks

Six-track

Sound engine

Circuit models of the TR-808, TR-909, TR-606, TR-707 and more; FM sound engine

Sequencer

Sub-steps, flam, step-loop, motion recording

Display

16 characters, 2 lines, backlit LCD

Power

Four AA batteries or USB bus power

Current draw