3 Mar, 2026
303 Day: Today, Michigan Synth Works has introduced the LRB-303, an open source version of the classic Roland TB-303 Computer Controlled Bassline Synthesizer.
It’s a full-size clone, controlled by the OS-303 Open Source TB-303 Processor. This chip is a drop-in replacement for the u650 processor used in the TB-303, TR-606, and TR-808. It runs an open-source version of the 303 firmware.
There are dozens of 303-inspired synths, including a free software 303 emulations from Roland, Behringer’s inexpensive TD-3, DinSync’s unofficial 303 reissue, and Future Retro’s 777 uber-303. The LRB-303, though, is open, DIY and hackable, making it at platform, as much as a synth.
Michigan Synth Works says that details on the LRB-303 will be available soon, with pricing for a complete build expected to be around $700.
3 Mar, 2025
It is 3 March, also known, to Roland as 303 Day, and to celebrate the company is giving away free licenses for its official TB-303 plugin via Roland Cloud. You will need to be quick in claiming yours though, as the company is limiting the offer to a maximum of 3,030 downloads.
The original TB-303 hardware launched in 1981, is one of the most iconic synthesizers of all time.
Roland’s plugin version, TB-303 Software Bass Line, was released via the company’s Cloud subscription service on 303 Day 2019. The TB-303 Software Bass Line takes the classic instrument to the next level. Utilizing Analog Circuit Behavior modeling, the virtual TB-303 captures the original hardware’s hypnotic tone and perfectly complements the TR-909 and other classic Roland instruments. With its single oscillator, resonant low pass filter and basic envelope, but adds a few additional flourishes, including a Condition parameter, delay and distortion effects, are a big part of the signature acid sound.
The plugin also redesigns the notoriously awkward sequencer of the original units, which makes programming patterns considerably easier without losing the esoteric elements that contribute to the character of the 303.
You can grab a copy of the software 303 by signing up at the Roland official site. The offer is open until 12pm PST on 10 March or when all 3,030 copies have been claimed, so if you’re tempted we’d suggest making your move now.
Alongside the giveaway, Roland is also celebrating 303 Day with a quartet of online tutorials: Mastering the TB-303 Sequencer in Roland Cloud, Beyond Acid: Pushing the TB-303 into New Sonic Territory, and deep dives on classic 303 cuts Song of Life by Leftfield and Praise You by Fatboy Slim.
3 Mar, 2024
Roland and Serato come together to celebrate 303 day with a double control vinyl set that also honours the TR-606 drum machine.
Crank out your squelchiest basslines, because it’s 303 day, and Roland and Serato are celebrating together this year with a double control vinyl set that honours not only the iconic classic TB synth, but also the TR-606 drum machine.
The special edition vinyl is created in collaboration with trailblazing DJs J. Rocc, Fast Eddie, Shadow Child and DJ Haus.
Both boxes were released in 1981 to a fairly muted response, but found their groove in the ‘90s when they were discovered and repurposed by electronic musicians. The first record pays tribute to the distinctive bass lines of the 303, reinterpreted by hip house pioneer Fast Eddie and influential dance music DJ and producer Shadow Child. The second record simulates the pulsating drum beats of the 606, reinvented by seminal producer DJ Haus and J. Rocc, one of the original turntablists.
The records are designed to show how the revered sounds of Roland’s TR-606 and TB-303 continue to influence the landscape of electronic music today.
“If it wasn’t for the 303, I wouldn’t even be here right now talking to you. That’s my history,” says Fast Eddie of the classic Roland synth. J Rocc meanwhile, recalls: “When I first heard the 606, it was a revelation – it’s right up there with the best.”
Each vinyl was designed with complementary BPMs, allowing for flawless synchronization when played together. DJs can also blend them with their existing record collection or integrate them seamlessly with tracks in their DJ software, making it easy to use them together. The flip side (B & D) of each vinyl offers the Serato control tone for purists.
The Serato + Roland TB-303 Bass Line / TR-606 Drumatix Control Vinyl is available now. Find out details on the Serato website.
