Vintage Synth Explorer

Roland • TR-66 Rhythm Arranger

The TR-66 is probably the simplest of the old drum machines. It is a very slimmed down CR-68 (as if that wasn't already slim enough). Roland sure scrimped on this one, there are only 27 preset patterns which are selected by a combination of switches and the bank buttons. There's little edit ability: 3 variations, a tempo knob and a balance knob. The typical waltz, rock, bossa nova, swing, shuffle and tango type presets are available.

Offering little or no use to modern day music production, this machines original purpose was to provide simple backup beats for solo organ playing or other instrument practice. It simply is far too un-flexible for any studio work but it is a nice addition to any vintage gear collection.

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bodhi

Posted 37 days ago

the TR-66 appeared way before the CR-68 and sounds nothing like it or the CR-78. the TR-66 sounds much darker and thicker than the CR series. by using the 27 presets (alone or in combination) , the balance knob and the variations, this box is quite useful. especially for live electronic performances. easily one of my fave early beatboxs...

fod09

Posted 182 days ago

wonce i found a strange glitsh in the 66 whair you can play the cow bell + hi hat at the saime time?????????????

Blair

Posted 232 days ago

Actually the TR-66 has 10 drum voices:
Bass Drum
High Conga
Low Bongo
High Bongo
Cow Bell
Claves
Snare Drum
Rim Shot
Hi Hat/Maracas
Cymbal

Sadly, there's no trigger out. Patterns can be combined, and there are some variations (every 2/4 bars) so really there's more than just 27 presets.

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