Explore Roland’s DJ-808 controller with a built-in TR drum machine and Serato DJ integration. This detailed review covers features, performance, build quality, MIDI capabilities, and unique advantages for DJs and producers seeking a hybrid controller for creative sets and live music production.
Roland DJ-808 Review: The Ultimate Controller for Producer-DJs
Introduction
The Roland DJ-808 is not just another DJ controller—it’s a revolutionary hybrid unit fusing traditional DJing with hands-on music production. Designed in collaboration with Serato, Roland brings their legendary drum machines straight to the booth. If you’re a producer looking to inject live beats into your performances or a seasoned DJ seeking expanded creative options, this comprehensive review covers all you need to know.
Key Features
- Four-channel Serato DJ controller
- Standalone mixer functionality
- Integrated Roland TR drum machine (707, 808, 909, 606 sounds)
- Step sequencer and performance pads
- Pitch ‘n Time expansion included
- High-quality jog wheels and tactile controls
- Full-sized pitch faders for manual beat-matching
- MIDI Out for syncing external equipment
Build Quality and Layout
Roland has excelled with the build of this unit—the DJ-808 feels rugged and professional. Each fader, knob, and pad is reassuringly high-quality. The jog wheels offer a perfect balance between weighted precision and smooth rotation, ideal for both mixing and scratching.
All essential performance features are easily accessible. The four channels support color effects, looping, and hot cues. The included Pitch ‘n Time license unlocks Serato’s advanced key sync and pitch play, expanding creative remixing capabilities.
Serato DJ Integration
As a Serato DJ controller, the DJ-808 offers seamless integration and deep feature set access. Every major function has a dedicated button or control on the surface, streamlining workflow. Key sync, pad performance modes, slicers, loops, and cue management are all front-and-center.
The unit is also a full-fledged mixer—perfect for integrating turntables, CDJs, or external synths for hybrid performances.
The TR Drum Machine Section
What sets the DJ-808 apart is the genuine Roland TR drum machine embedded at the top of the controller. This legendary technology brings authentic 707, 808, 909, and 606 percussive sounds right to your fingertips, complete with:
- Step-sequencer buttons for creating drum patterns on-the-fly
- Controls for swing, trim, attack, tune, and decay (for individual drum hits)
- Live triggering using performance pads
- Pattern memory with instant recall for up to 16 sequences
- Independent volume faders for each drum sound for dynamic layering
The step sequencer opens doors for DJs to improvise live rhythms, enrich transitions, or customize drops and breakdowns—no laptop required!
Sample Slots and Live Remixing
The DJ-808 works with Serato’s sampler, allowing use of eight additional one-shot samples. Combine these with the TR drums for elaborate live mixes and unique transitions. Effects can be applied to entire drum patterns for evolving soundscapes, although individual drum hits cannot be targeted with effects (yet).
MIDI Out and External Sync
With MIDI Out, the DJ-808 can serve as the command center of a larger setup. Sync drum machines, synths, and external instruments to build a truly hybrid live show, enabling creative producers to sequence their music dynamically during gigs.
Price and Value
In the UK, the DJ-808 retails at around £999, and in the US approximately $1,299. For the amount of hardware, build quality, built-in drum machine, Serato license, and flexibility, this is remarkable value for advanced DJs and producer-performers.
Who Should Buy the Roland DJ-808?
- Experienced DJs who feel limited by standard controllers and want extra creative tools
- Producer-DJs looking for hands-on drum programming and real-time beat creation
- DJs wanting a centerpiece for hybrid setups, integrating controllers, turntables, synths, and sequencers
- Artists who value tactile workflow and want to perform unique, evolving sets
Who May Not Need the DJ-808?
- Beginner DJs who don’t need advanced production functionality
- DJs strictly focused on mixing tracks without interest in live beat-making
- Those with limited interest in Serato and Roland’s TR drum sounds
Personal Insights: Performance and Fun Factor
Using the DJ-808 is a refreshing experience—the workflow encourages experimentation and creativity far beyond conventional DJ routines. Performance features are familiar if you’re upgrading from another Serato controller, but the drum machine adds a new layer, helping DJs learn song structure and facilitating entry into music production.
For producers, the unit offers deep control over drum sounds, sequencing, and integration with other hardware—a solid investment in creativity.
Future Expansion: The DJ-808 in the Roland Lineup
Roland has announced other models (DJ-202 and DJ-505), offering more accessible price points. If the DJ-808’s cost is prohibitive, consider its smaller siblings for similar build quality and essential features—though the DJ-808 remains the flagship in this range.
Conclusion
The Roland DJ-808 is a powerhouse controller tailored for DJs who want more from their performances. It merges high-grade DJ controls, professional build, advanced Serato integration, and the legendary Roland TR drum machine. Whether you mash up beats live, produce on the fly, or sync external instruments, the DJ-808 opens up a world of creative opportunity. Highly recommended for hands-on producers and boundary-pushing DJs seeking a step into live performance and music creation.