The Roland TB-303 Lifetime Key Software Bass Line Plug-In is a detailed replica of the legendary TB-303 Bass Line that defined the acid house movement of the late 1980s. The plug-in version offers the sound and behavior of the original—with circuit-level sonic accuracy—plus new features that virtually modify the hardware for more sound choices and faster, more fluid programming. Unleash the hypnotic, liquid low-end sound that captivated a generation.
The plug in comes with a Roland Cloud Lifetime Key, which is managed online and provides 24-hour access to all updates and enhancement at no additional charge. A free Roland Account is required to access Roland Cloud Manager.
Virtual Acid: TB-303 for a New Generation
- When Roland released the TB-303 in 1981, it was marketed as a computerized bass machine to simulate a traditional bass guitar, but didn’t quite catch on. Later on, inventive electronic musicians discovered the 303, often on the secondhand market, and found new uses for its recognizably fluid low end.
- Using the 303 in new ways, DJ Pierre and Phuture pioneered what came to be known as acid. This new sound ignited other electronic music genres, and like the Roland TR-808’s influence on hip-hop, the TB-303 played an essential role in late ‘80s and early ‘90s rave culture.
Plug In Your Own TB-303
Roland Cloud is the only authentic software resource for the true TB-303 sound. While the original hardware version is scarce, expensive, and in need of frequent tune-ups, Roland's plug-in is always ready to play whenever you need it. There are some great feature enhancements too, which are only available in the virtual instrument:
- 64 patterns per bank
- 64 patches per bank
- 48 preset patches and 32 preset patterns included
- 8 variations per pattern
- New graphic edit window for step input, pattern edit, and pattern creation
- Circuit modification via the new VCF Trim, Vintage Condition, and Master Tune knobs
- Condition knob adjusts the age and condition of the virtual hardware
- Overdrive/compressor and delay with tempo sync
- Pattern drag and drop of MIDI/audio data to your DAW
- Five play modes: Forward, Reverse, Fwd & Rev, Invert, and Random
- Six-octave spread (C0 to C6)
- Position locking to DAW
Five Play Modes
- With five new play modes (Forward/Reverse/FWD&REV/Invert/Random) the TB-303 Software Synthesizer widens the ability to experiment. These new functions allow sonic alchemists to twist and turn the bass, changing direction at will.
Edit Window
- The 303’s new editing window enables you to create and edit patterns with a visual interface. With the ability to see the DNA of a preset pattern, you can edit a variation, or start from scratch then step-edit a new pattern, using up to six octaves with user-defined scales, accents, slides, pitch manipulation, and more.
- The new randomize/generate functions create an endless supply of classic 303 patterns.
The Secret Panel
- A hidden panel on the far-right corner of the 303 unlocks a variety of new tone-coloring features. Explore the expanded circuit modification via the new VCF trim, Vintage Condition, and Master Tune knobs.
- The onboard effects, including distortion and delay with tempo-sync, are sure to inspire fresh ideas.
More Memory and Manipulation
- For the first time, the TB-303 can hold up to 64 patterns and 64 patches per bank. The eight variations of a pattern are still accessible on the UI faceplate. Plus, with 32 preset patterns and 48 unique sounds, the 303 arrives complete with sonic templates for you to explore.
Hardware Integration
- Pairing with the TB-03 Roland Boutique synth or the TB-3 Touch Bassline provides hands-on control for the plug-in.
What is a Lifetime Key and How Does It Work?
- The Lifetime Key system provides an evolving service that includes free lifetime updates, cloud-based mobility with installation for up to five devices, plus access to current Test Drive promotions of instruments and patch collections.
- A Lifetime Key is a cloud-based authorization for Roland Cloud instruments. Roland Cloud Membership and Lifetime Keys are managed through an online ID called a Roland Account.
- A free Roland Account is required to access Roland Cloud Manager and will periodically connect to the internet to authorize your Membership and/or Lifetime Keys.
- Lifetime Key is active as long as your Roland account is active—even if you’re not a paying member.